Simple Signs Of Peripheral Nerve Damage

Today's post from ntc.lluh.org (see link below) is not really for people who have been living with neuropathy for some time - they're well-aware of what the symptoms feel like but you'd be amazed at the numbers of people who find their way here to the blog and are bewildered by the hundreds of articles that address neuropathy in depth but leave them feeling unsure if nerve damage is actually what they have. This is a simple article, describing different symptoms that are common to neuropathy and will be of benefit for those encountering the disease for the first time and needing confirmation that neuropathy is probably what they have. Having read this, your next step is to visit your doctor for professional confirmation and if nerve damage is diagnosed, then you can begin your journey with this condition. Be warned: there's no cure and it's a long process but hopefully, you'll find relief from the strange sensations that are bothering you.
 

12 Signs of Peripheral Neuropathy
22 Aug 2017 By Dr. Mark Bussell 

Pain comes in many shapes and sizes, especially when we’re talking about peripheral neuropathy or nerve pain. It’s common to experience pain in the arms, hands, legs or feet and feel a tingling, burning or stabbing sensation that won’t stop.

However, there are many other symptoms to nerve pain that can trigger the onset of chronic pain. First, let’s take a closer look at peripheral neuropathy.

Each person has a string of peripheral nerves that begin at the brain and spinal cord and run down toward our hands and feet. These nerves also stretch to our internal organs, mouth and face. Unfortunately, it’s our hands and feet that are the first to experience the unrelenting signs of nerve pain.

The purpose of these nerves is to relay signals of physical sensation back to the brain. For example, touching a hot plate or picking up a cold glass of water. If an individual is showing signs of numbness in the hands, it may be hard to get the message to the brain.

So, what causes certain kinds of nerve pain symptoms? Well, it starts with three types of nerves within the peripheral nervous system. Each set of nerves is designed with a specific purpose and have their own unique symptoms. 

Sensory

Sensory nerves relay sensations from the skin back to the brain. If you’re suffering with nerve pain, the following symptoms may be caused by damage to the sensory nerves.

Extreme sensitivity to touch
Numbness and tingling (typically felt in the hands and feet) — it’s a challenge to pick up things or walk
Stabbing or burning pain (will vary from moderate to extreme)

Motor

Motor nerves or “efferent nerves” relay impulses from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles. Individuals experiencing these symptoms often have trouble standing on their own, walking, going up and down stairs, picking up utensils or turning a door handle.

Loss of balance
Muscle weakness
Muscle cramps

Autonomic

Our autonomic nerves regulate the internal functions of our bodies, such as breathing and heart rate. Symptoms caused by nerve damage to the autonomic nerves include: 

Excessive sweating
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Lack of bladder control
Trouble seeing
Digestive problems (constipation, vomiting, diarrhea, trouble swallowing)

As you can see, the signs vary between each set of nerves and can affect individuals differently. If you’re experiencing any or all of these symptoms, please consult with your doctor. 

 https://ntc.lluh.org/blog/12-signs-of-peripheral-neuropathy