What causes neuropathy?

“You must have heard neuropathy is a kind of pain, but do you also struggle to distinguish it from others?” 

If yes, continue reading.

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that occurs when the nerves in your peripheral nervous system, which are responsible for sending signals between your brain and the rest of your body, become damaged. This can be a result of a variety of physical injuries, infections, toxins, or metabolic disorders like diabetes.

The name neuropathy is derived from two Greek words:

• Neuro from ‘neuron’ meaning nerve
• Pathy from ‘pathos’ meaning meaning suffering

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What are the symptoms of neuropathy?

• Muscle weakness
• Paralysis
• Uncontrolled movement
• Numbness
• Pain
• Blood pressure changes
• Sexual dysfunction

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What causes neuropathy?

Some of the major factors contributing to neuropathy are diseases or disorders, injury, alcohol, toxins, infections, autoimmune disorders and the use of certain medications. When these factors interfere with the normal functioning of your nerves, the signal transmission changes, causing sensations like burning, tingling, pain, cramps, twitching, muscle weakness or numbness in the body.

Your nerves are covered by a protective covering called myelin sheath. When this covering is damaged, the nerve fibers get exposed and damaged, leading to pain, weakness, and abnormal sensations.

It is therefore important to understand the causes of neuropathy so that you can take early steps to protect your nerves and prevent neuropathy.

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