Question

what is polyneuropathy? examples?

Answer 1

POLYNEUROPATHY:-

It is a condition in which multiple peripheral nerves become damaged. It is also called as peripheral neuropathy.

The peripheral nerves are the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord.

They relay information between the central nervous system (CNS), and all other parts of the body.

*The brain and spinal cord are part of the CNS.

Actually, polyneuropathy affects several nerves in different parts of the body at the same time. But, in cases of mononeuropathy, just one nerve is affected.

There are three main patterns of polyneuropathy:-

1)Chronic symmetrical peripheral neuropathy.

2)Multiple mononeuropathy.

3)Acute symmetrical peripheral neuropathy.

Risk factors/Causes:-

✓ Diabetes

✓ Autoimmune diseases

✓ Alcohol abuse

✓ Bone marrow disorders

✓ Bacterial and Viral infections

✓ Hypothyroidism

✓Kidney and liver diseases.

Symptoms:-

Depending upon which nerves are affected, it can produce variety of symptoms:-

1) Symptoms associated with sensory or motor nerve damage are:-

* Tingling

* Numbness

* Pins and needles

* Difficulty using the arms, legs, hands, and feet

* Inability to feel pain

* Extreme sensitivity to touch

* Inability to sense temperature changes

* Lack of coordination

* Increased episodes of falling

2) Symptoms associated with autonomic nerve damage are:-

* Heat intolerance

* Unusual sweating

* Bladder problems or incontinence

* Digestive problems

* Dizziness

* Blood pressure or the pulse abnormalities

* Difficulty in breathing

* Inability to sense temperature changes

* Lack of coordination

Complications:-

A) Burns and skin damage:

Numbness and an inability to feel pain or temperature changes can lead to accidental burns, cuts, and other damage to the skin.

B) Infections:

Injuries, burns, and cuts, particularly on the legs and feet, can go unnoticed, which leads to an increased risk of infection.

C) Falls:

Weakness and loss of sensation may be associated with lack of balance, which may also result in falling.

Diagnosis:-

Blood tests:-

May be ordered to check for diabetes, thyroid function, immune function, nutrient deficiencies, and other factors that may cause polyneuropathy.

MRI or CT scan:-

These imaging techniques look for tumors, herniated disks etc.

Electro-diagnostic tests:-

These non-invasive tests measure the electrical activity in the muscles and nerves, helping to detect the nerve damage. Examples are electromyography and nerve conduction velocity.

Biopsies:-

The healthcare provider may remove a small portion of a nerve, or sample of the skin, to test for abnormalities in nerve function or nerve endings.

Treatment:-

a) Medications for associated conditions:

For example; insulin for diabetes and thyroid hormones for hypothyroidism.

b )Prescription medications:

Like Antidepressants and Corticosteroids

c )Pain medications.

Medical therapies includes:-

*Plasma exchange

*Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

*Immunoglobulin therapy

*Physical therapy

Alternative treatment includes:-

✓ Chiropractic care

✓ Massage

✓ Meditation

Prevention:-

✓Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein to keep nerves healthy.

✓Avoid factors that may cause nerve damage, including repetitive motions, cramped positions that put pressure on nerves, exposure to toxic chemicals, smoking etc.

✓Exercise regularly

EXAMPLES OF POLYNEUROPATHY:-

✓Celiac disease.

✓Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease.

✓ Diabetes.

✓ Diphtheria.

✓ Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

✓ Hepatitis B.

✓ Hepatitis C.