What is Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy, often shortened to neuropathy, is a general term describing disease affecting the peripheral nerves, meaning nerves beyond the brain and spinal cord. Damage to peripheral nerves may impair sensation, movement, gland, or organ function depending on which nerves are affected; in other words, neuropathy affecting motor, sensory, or autonomic nerves result in different symptoms. More than one type of nerve may be affected simultaneously. Peripheral neuropathy may be acute (with sudden onset, rapid progress) or chronic (symptoms begin subtly and progress slowly), and may be reversible or permanent.

Tingling and burning sensation in foot of Asian young man

This nerve disorder causes pain and numbness for millions of Americans. How do you know if you have peripheral nerve damage?

The symptoms of neuropathy may come on quickly or develop over many years – may start gradually and then get worse. These symptoms can include numbness, tingling, pain, and even decreased sensation.

Are you experiencing symptoms such as burning, tingling or numbness in your feet or hands? If so, it could be attributed to a condition called Peripheral Neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is a nerve disorder that affects millions of Americans. It is estimated that 1 out of 17 Americans are found to have neuropathy symptoms.

There are many different kinds of peripheral nerve disorders or neuropathies. Some are the result of disease such as diabetes, with 60 to 70 percent of diabetics experiencing some form of neuropathy symptoms. Side effects to certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs or long-term cholesterol medication use, may result in neuropathy while others can be triggered by a virus infections. Regardless of how of the condition begins, it is imperative that this nerve disorder is evaluated, as soon as possible, to prevent permanent damage.

Advanced Medical of Florida provides you with the medical care you need.  For more information, go to our web site http://www.amfhealthcare.com or call (727) 408-5222.