Theperipheral nervous systemis one of two parts of the nervous system.
Peripheral neuropathy can’t always be cured, but it can be managed.
The approach to treatment can also vary.
Verywell / JR Bee
Mononeuropathy
Mononeuropathy is a throw in of neuropathy involving only one nerve.
It is a more complicated condition that usually arises from a systemic (whole-body) disease.
Symptoms tend to develop gradually rather than abruptly.
When this happens, peripheral nerve cells can “misfire” and trigger nerve pain and other neuropathy symptoms.
The hands and feet are most commonly involved.
Common causes of polyneuropathy include:
Mononeuritis Multiplex
Mononeuritis multiplex falls somewhere between mononeuropathy and polyneuropathy.
It is caused when two or more separate nerve bundles are simultaneously affected.
It is differentiated from polyneuropathy in that it tends to be unilateral (one-sided).
With that said, the condition can sometimes progress and affect both sides of the body asymmetrically.
Mononeuritis multiplex is also associated more with the loss of sensory or motor function of individual nerves.
Oftentimes, the pain, if any, may be deep and aching rather than sharp and severe.
These includesensory nervesthat provide sensations,motor nervesthat regulate voluntary muscle movements, andautonomic nervesthat regulate involuntary muscle movements.
Sensory Symptoms
Abnormal sensations are the main body of symptoms most people associate with peripheral neuropathy.
This differs from proprioception in that it involves the loss of motor function rather than sensory function.
Additional tests and procedures may be ordered to narrow the possible causes.
Your muscle strength and gait will also be evaluated.
Genetic testing can help detect diseases like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
They can also help exclude certain causes, like nerve compression, to support the diagnosis.
Peripheral Neuropathy vs. ## Treating Peripheral Neuropathy
The treatment of peripheral neuropathy differs based on the underlying cause.
Easing Symptoms
In severe or chronic (persistent) cases, medications may be prescribed.
Summary
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition triggered by damage to the peripheral nerves.
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