Are Your Hands and Feet Tingling? Peripheral Neuropathy May Be to Blame

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition caused by damage to the nerves connected to the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system transmits sensory information between the brain and spinal cord to other body parts.


The nerves also send information to the central nervous system. Neuropathy usually causes numbness, weakness, and pain in the limbs, but it can affect other body areas and functions. If your hands and feet are tingling, find out if peripheral neuropathy may be to blame. 



Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy



Different factors can cause the disease. Some health conditions that can cause peripheral neuropathy include:
 

  • Autoimmune diseases
     

  • Infections
     

  • Diabetes
     

  • Tumors
     

  • Inherited disorders
     

  • Kidney disease
     

  • Liver disease
     

  • Alcoholism
     

  • Certain medications
     

  • Exposure to toxic substances and vitamin deficiencies
     

  • Injury or pressure to the nerve


In some cases, there is no identifiable cause of the neuropathy. 



Do You Have Tingling Hands and Feet?



Peripheral nerves convert external information into nerve signals that travel to the brain, where they are processed. Neuropathy can disrupt the ability or function of the senses and how they communicate with the brain.


If you experience tingling in your hands and feet, it could be a sensory symptom of peripheral neuropathy. Other sensory symptoms include numbness, clumsiness, imbalance, and pain. Early detection or diagnosis of the condition gives a chance for effective treatment to prevent further nerve damage.



Symptoms



Symptoms of the condition depend on the nerves affected. There are different categories of nerves, including sensory nerves, motor nerves, and autonomic nerves. Symptoms include:
 

  • Numbness, tingling, or prickling in the hands and feet, which often spreads into the arms and legs
     

  • Extreme touch sensitivity
     

  • Sharp, throbbing, burning, or jabbing pain
     

  • Pain when putting weight on the legs
     

  • Muscle weakness
     

  • Falling or lack of coordination
     

  • Heat intolerance or excessive sweating
     

  • Paralysis
     

  • Digestive, bladder, or bowel problems
     

  • Dizziness or light-headedness caused by drops in blood pressure



Complications



Failing to treat or manage the disease can lead to various complications. Infections may occur when areas that lack sensation are injured without knowledge. Loss of sensation, weakness, and lack of balance can result in falls.


Failing to feel pain or experience temperature changes can cause burns or skin injuries. Managing underlying health conditions can help prevent the complications associated with peripheral neuropathy.



Treatment



Medication can help relieve the symptoms of neuropathy. The goal of treatment is to manage the underlying condition. Treatment options include pain relievers, anti-seizure medications, antidepressants, and topical ointments.


Various therapies can help relieve the early signs of the condition. They include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), plasma exchange and intravenous immune globulin, and chiropractic and physical therapy. Surgery can help relieve the pressure on nerves. 


Using home remedies and making lifestyle changes can help manage peripheral neuropathy. Eating a healthy diet, exercising, quitting smoking, and taking care of your feet (podiatry), can help manage the condition. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and wear safety equipment where necessary. If you have diabetes, ensure that you check your sugar levels. 



For more about hands and feet tingling, call Beyer Functional Wellness at (708) 719-9100 to reach our office in Mokena, Illinois.

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