This detailed guide explains nerve damage, including its types, causes, and symptoms. It covers peripheral, proximal, and autonomic neuropathies, highlighting common causes like toxins, infections, and injuries. The article also discusses symptoms such as numbness, pain, and coordination issues, and outlines diagnostic procedures. Treatment options focus on symptom relief and elimination of underlying issues, aiming to improve quality of life for affected individuals.

Nerve impairment, known as neuropathy, occurs when nerves become damaged due to various health issues or injuries. Since nerves run throughout the body and are responsible for sending signals from the brain to organs, damage can cause serious problems. Neuropathy can be classified by which nerves are affected and is more common in people over 55. Causes include metabolic problems, exposure to toxins, infections, or injuries, all impacting overall health and well-being.

Categories of nerve injury

Peripheral nerve damage involves nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, leading to weakness, numbness, and pain, especially in extremities.
Proximal nerve damage affects cranial nerves from the brain, causing issues like facial paralysis (Bell's palsy) and eye movement difficulties. Symptoms may be visible through eye and ear problems.
Autonomic nerve damage disrupts involuntary functions such as blood flow, digestion, bladder control, and sweating, affecting internal organ health.
Focal nerve damage targets specific nerves, often associated with diabetes.

All these conditions are part of peripheral nerve disorders, commonly called peripheral neuropathy.

Major causes include:

Genetic predispositions present from birth or acquired later.

Kidney diseases that cause toxic buildup in the blood, damaging nerves.

Exposure to heavy metals like arsenic, lead, or mercury.

Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, antivirals, antibiotics, or anticonvulsants.

Liver disorders resulting in chemical imbalances.

Excessive alcohol intake.

Blood conditions and cancers.

Vitamin deficiencies and hormonal issues.

Chronic inflammation.

Physical injuries or accidents.

Infections like HIV, shingles, leprosy, Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr virus, and diphtheria.

Autoimmune disorders including multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.

Signs of neuropathy include:

Tingling, numbness, often starting in toes and spreading upward.

Muscle weakness, pain, cramps, and twitching.

Muscle wasting and changes in skin or nails.

Coordination problems, imbalance, and altered reflexes.

Burning sensations, hypersensitivity, or pain insensitivity.

Autonomic nerve damage symptoms:

Digestive difficulties like constipation or diarrhea.

Problems swallowing or urination.

Sudden shifts in heart rate and blood pressure.

Erectile dysfunction, abnormal sweating, dry eyes, and dry mouth.

Diagnostic methods:

Physical checkup and health history review.

Blood tests to identify underlying causes.

Lumbar puncture for neurological assessment.

Tests on sensory and motor functions.

Imaging and tumor evaluations if needed.

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing root causes using medications, injections, or therapies to restore nerve health and function.