Idiopathic Neuropathy - This Diagnosis Sucks!

Today's post from healthline.com (see link below) will probably not teach experienced neuropathy patients anything new but if you have just walked out of a doctor's practice with the diagnosis of 'Idiopathic neuropathy', this short article may well help you understand a little better why someone has given you such a vague label for your condition. Basically, idiopathic neuropathy just means that you have nerve damage but they can't establish the cause. it's the worst possible form of diagnosis because you immediately feel that everyone is going to think that it's all just between your ears. After all, if you're ill, there must be a reason for it eh! To be told that you have a disease without a hard and fast cause, is both confusing and frustrating and telling your friends, employers and family is only going to lead to suspicions that you're faking it. Well you're not!! Just because the medical profession can't find a reason for your symptoms doesn't mean they don't exist...it just means the medical profession lacks the knowledge at this moment to identify the reason for your nerve damage. They need to find a new label, or at the very least, provide you with a list of prime suspects, so that you can tell yourself and those around you that your nerve damage has happened for this, this, or this reason. Anything seems better than 'they don't know'! However, we have to accept things as they currently are and do our best to educate those around us about the symptoms you have - they're real enough!
 

Idiopathic Neuropathy 
Medically reviewed by William Morrison, MD on August 12, 2016 — Written by Ann Pietrangelo

Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Diagnosis
Treatment
Outlook

What is idiopathic neuropathy?

Neuropathy is when nerve damage interferes with the functioning of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). When the cause can’t be determined, it’s called idiopathic neuropathy.

The PNS carries information from the central nervous system (CNS), or brain and spinal cord, to the rest of the body.

There are three kinds of nerves within the PNS. Sensory nerves relay messages from the senses to the brain. This allows sensations of temperature and touch. Motor nerves transmit signals from the brain to the muscles. This helps the brain control the muscles. Autonomic nerves control body functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion.

Damage to nerve cells can affect how the PNS communicates with the rest of the body. Symptoms can include numbness, pain, and balance issues.

It’s called acute neuropathy when symptoms develop suddenly. Alternately, it’s called chronic neuropathy when symptoms start slowly and increase over time.

Diagnosis involves physical examination and review of medical history. Diagnostic testing may include blood tests, nerve testing, and imaging tests.

There is no cure for idiopathic neuropathy. Treatments including medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications can help you function and feel better.

What are the symptoms of neuropathy?

Symptoms can be vague at onset and are similar to those of other conditions. Symptoms vary depending on which nerves are damaged.

Symptoms of sensory neuropathy may include:
numbness, tingling, and burning sensation, particularly in hands and feet
vague or strange sensations (paresthesias)
pain, or inability to feel pain, touch, or temperature
lack of coordination or loss of reflexes

Symptoms of motor neuropathy may include:
muscle weakness or loss of muscle control
trouble with balance and coordination
muscle twitching, cramping, or spasms
difficulty walking or moving limbs

Symptoms of autonomic neuropathy may include:
dizziness, or fainting
sweating abnormalities
nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
abnormal heart rate or blood pressure
sexual dysfunction

Symptoms may progress quickly and then slowly get better over time in some forms of acute neuropathy. Some chronic neuropathies cause periods of relapse followed by periods of remission.

What are the causes of neuropathy?

Some conditions that cause neuropathy are hereditary. Other things that can cause it include:
injury or infection
nutritional or hormonal imbalances
chemotherapy or exposure to toxic substances
autoimmune diseases such as Lyme disease, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
systemic diseases like diabetes, kidney disorders, and certain cancers
vascular disorders
tumors

Approximately 30 percent of neuropathy cases are due to diabetes, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Between 30 and 40 percent of the remaining cases are idiopathic.


Who is at risk for neuropathy?

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke estimates that approximately 20 million Americans have peripheral neuropathy. Anyone can develop neuropathy, but risk increases with age.

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

There is no one definitive test for neuropathy. Testing begins with a physical examination and a complete medical history. Tell your doctor about any symptoms you’re experiencing. Be sure to let them know about over-the-counter and prescription medications you’re taking. It’s also important to mention if you’ve been exposed to toxins on the job or at home.

Diagnostic testing may include:
blood work
urinalysis
nerve conduction studies (NCS)
electromyography (EMG)
skin, nerve, and muscle biopsies

Imaging tests may include a CT scan, X-rays, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

How is neuropathy treated?

Peripheral neuropathy can cause permanent damage to nerves if untreated. Treatment will target the cause if it can be determined.

Treatment of idiopathic neuropathy revolves around symptom management. Options include over-the-counter and prescription medications, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

Mobility aids can help you move around safely if you’re having trouble with balance or walking. These may include special shoes, braces, and canes.

Lifestyle choices can help to improve day-to-day functioning. It’s important to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients. It’s also important to get plenty of rest and exercise to tone and strengthen your muscles. Quitting smoking and keeping alcohol consumption to a minimum is healthy and may also help with your neuropathy.

Living with a chronic illness can lead to anxiety and stress. It can be helpful to talk with someone who lives with the same condition. Your doctor can refer you to a local neuropathy support group for additional support.


What is the long-term outlook for neuropathy?

The general prognosis for idiopathic neuropathy is good, even if your symptoms are permanent. There are many effective treatments available for keeping your symptoms in check and helping you lead a comfortable, happy life. Working with your doctor to treat any underlying condition you may have, along with your symptoms, is the ticket to your best outcome in the short and long term. 

https://www.healthline.com/health/idiopathic-neuropathy#outlook