Peripheral neuropathy is the condition of degeneration or damage of the peripheral nerves, i.e. the nerves which connect the limbs to the central nervous system. These nerves are part of an extensive network of communication between the brain, spinal cord and limbs which is responsible for movements of limbs and perception of sensation in the limbs.

Any damage to the peripheral nerve can lead to abnormal sensations like burning, tingling, crawling of insects over the limbs, etc. In severe cases there may be loss of sensation in the affected part. On other hand, there may be hypersensitivity, i.e. a slightest touch may feel painful. Affection of motor nerves which help in execution of movements leads to partial or total paralysis of affected limb or its part.

The symptoms may be acute or chronic, or recurrent depending on the underlying cause.

Any trauma to the peripheral nerves can cause acute onset of discomfort. The symptoms manifest in the part overlying the affected nerve. The symptoms revert completely once the damaged nerve fibers heal. This may take weeks to months to years depending on the part affected and severity of trauma.

Diabetes is a very common cause of peripheral neuropathy. Here the problem commonly occurs in the feet followed by hands. Greater the duration of uncontrolled diabetes, more severe will be the problem.  Certain congenital and hereditary conditions also lead to peripheral neuropathy.

Nutritional deficiencies particularly that of  vitamin B. complex lead to peripheral neuropathy. Numerous toxins are implicated in causing damage to peripheral nerves and leading to peripheral neuropathy. Alcohol and tobacco are most commonly abused substances world wide and cause peripheral neuropathy.

Heavy metals used in industries like lead, cadmium, etc. are also known causes of peripheral neuropathy. Workers exposed to these chemicals in factories  are known to develop peripheral neuropathy, which improves over a time, if the work place is changed. Drugs like isoniazid,stavudine,Metronidazole, etc. commonly cause peripheral neuropathy when used over a period of time. But symptoms of neuropathy become reduced and disappear, once the offending drug is withdrawn. Injury and diseases of the spinal cord can affect the peripheral nerves and lead to peripheral neuropathy

Clinical features of peripheral neuropathy are characteristic. Diagnosis is confirmed by nerve conduction and myography  studies, where function of a nerve and connecting muscle are studied.

In case of nutritional deficiency to be the cause for peripheral neuropathy, supplements of vitamin B.complex are used for treatment, either in tablet or injection form depending on the severity of symptoms. Apart from this, there is no definitive treatment by drugs for this condition. Pain killers and antidepressant drugs used in treatment of peripheral neuropathy provide only some relief in symptoms but not a cure.

Therefore it is better to prevent such a chronic troublesome condition. A nutritious diet rich in vitamin B. complex is very useful for preventing and treating peripheral neuropathy. Whole grains, cereals and green leafy vegetables are very good in this regard.

Avoiding alcohol and tobacco prevents peripheral neuropathy and also provides other health benefits. Those working with heavy metals should take adequate safety   measures to minimize direct contact with the toxic heavy metals.

In case of drug induced peripheral neuropathy, withdrawal of the offending drug leads to complete recovery of symptoms.

Early diagnosis and treatment of peripheral neuropathy is advantageous, as irrespective of the underlying  cause, the treatment will provide more relief.