Symptoms
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Burning or shooting nerve pain
- Weakness or muscle wasting
- Loss of balance in the dark
Condition
Neuropathy
Numbness and tingling with a treatable root cause.
Overview
Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, commonly caused by diabetes or vitamin deficiency. Nerve conduction studies identify the cause so treatment can be targeted and progression prevented.
Diagnosis
- Clinical examination
- Nerve conduction studies (NCS)
- Blood tests for diabetes and vitamin levels
Treatment
- Treatment of the underlying cause
- Medication for nerve pain
- Vitamin supplementation where deficient
- Foot care and prevention advice
Neuropathy — FAQs
When treated early, many neuropathies improve significantly. Controlling the underlying cause prevents further nerve damage.