Neuropathy

 

Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nerves. These nerves connect the central nervous system to the body. Motor nerves actuate muscles. Sensory nerves bring information from the body to the central nervous system and the brain. Autonomic nerves regulate internal organs, blood vessels, sweating and certain other functions. Many different diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, toxins such as alcohol, lead, arsenic, certain drugs, and immune disorders can damage the peripheral nerves. Peripheral neuropathy is common and in about 30% of the cases, the cause cannot be determined.

Damage to the peripheral nerves can cause pain, weakness, numbness, difficulty with walking and balance, erectile dysfunction, drops in blood pressure and fainting, and many other problems.

Useful Neuropathy Web Sites

 

Books

 

We have looked at this book and recommend it as a useful source of information. Links are included to the Amazon website where it also can often be obtained used at a very nominal price.

• Peripheral Neuropathy: When the Numbness, Weakness, and Pain Won't Stop (American Academy of Neurology), by Norman Latov, MD.