About this condition
Peripheral neuropathy can involve burning, pins and needles, discomfort from light touch, loss of sensation or muscle weakness. Symptoms may be symmetrical, such as in both feet, or limited to the territory of a particular nerve. Neuritis refers to certain inflammatory nerve problems, but not every neuropathy is inflammatory.
Clinical features
Potential causes include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, nerve compression or injury, certain medicines, infections and other conditions. Tingling alone cannot identify the cause. Rapidly progressive weakness or new problems with breathing should not be dismissed as a familiar chronic neuropathy.
Important differences and warning signs
A neurologist checks muscle strength, reflexes and several types of sensation. Selected laboratory tests may assess metabolic conditions or deficiencies; nerve conduction studies and electromyography can be useful depending on the distribution of symptoms. No single test identifies every neuropathy.
Assessment and individual care
Treatment primarily addresses the established cause. A plan can also cover neuropathic pain relief, appropriate rehabilitation and protection of feet or other areas with reduced sensation. Starting repeated vitamin courses without clear indications does not replace diagnostic assessment.
Related information: Numbness and tingling; Muscle weakness.
Signs and symptoms
- Burning, tingling, numbness or sensitivity to light touch.
- Reduced feeling in the feet or symptoms in one nerve distribution.
- Possible muscle weakness, reflex changes or walking difficulties.
Diagnosis and tests
Neurological assessment guides laboratory testing and possible electromyography or nerve conduction studies, depending on the suspected cause.
Care and treatment approaches
Management targets the cause, symptoms and prevention of injuries in areas of reduced sensation.
When to seek urgent care
Rapidly increasing symmetrical weakness accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing needs immediate medical help. Sudden one-sided numbness could indicate stroke: call 103.
Frequently asked questions
Does every tingling sensation mean neuropathy?
No. Several temporary or medical causes are possible, so timing and examination matter.
Is electromyography needed for everyone?
No. Testing is chosen based on the distribution of symptoms and the clinical question.
Why take special care of feet with reduced sensation?
Injuries or pressure from shoes may go unnoticed. Preventive advice depends on the cause and degree of sensory loss.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
