Could you kindly inform me about the name of the condition that affects the peripheral nervous system?
Module 2 Discussion
Peripheral neuropathy is the name of a disorder of the peripheral nervous system.
Peripheral neuropathy occurs due to nerve injuries that are located outside of the brain and spinal cord which are termed the peripheral nerves of the body. It can also be due to inflammations, problems in the metabolism, due to genetic causes, diabetes, and also may be due to toxins exposure. It often results in tiredness, lack of sensation in the hands and the feet. The other areas and functions of the body are also affected including the process of circulation, digestion, and urination. The information is sent to the entire body from the brain and spinal cord. The sensory information is also sent by the peripheral nerves to the central nervous system. People who suffer from peripheral neuropathy narrate the pain as throbbing, crushing, or prickling.
One of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy is due to diabetes. However, in a few cases, kidney disorder or hormone imbalance may also be the causes that lead to peripheral neuropathy.
Doctors categorize peripheral neuropathy into four major types such as motor neuropathy, sensory neuropathy, autonomic nerve neuropathy, and combination neuropathies.
The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include weakness and twitching in the muscles, discoloration in skin, nails, and hair, lack of sensation in any parts of the body especially in the regions of legs and arms, loss of bones and muscles, cramps, disturbances in sleep and emotions, intolerance to heat, sudden fluctuation in blood pressure leading to giddiness and syncope, diarrhea, breathlessness, constipation, difficulties in swallowing and eating and also abnormalities in the heart rates.
Peripheral neuropathy can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Giving up alcohol, treating deficiencies in vitamin levels, consuming a nutritious diet, decreasing obesity, preventing pollutants, and working out frequently can minimize the chances of developing this disease. When a person has nephrotic disorders, diabetes, or another chronic medical problem, seeking regular advice from the doctor to manage this disease can prevent him from getting this disorder or also prevent the progression of peripheral neuropathy. The tests that can be done to identify the extent of nerve damage are blood tests, spinal fluid tests, and tests to measure the strength of the muscles and also to detect vibrations. Also, CT scans, MRI scans, electromyography, and nerve conduction studies along with nerve and skin biopsy tests can be conducted to provide better management for the disease.
Reference
Hopkinsmedicine.org. (2022). Peripheral Neuropathy. Retrieved from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/peripheral-neuropathy [Retrieved on 4th May 2022].
