Neuropathy

Home » Neuropathy » Neuropathy Signs and Symptoms

Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Neuropathy
(Free Handout)

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the type of nerve(s) affected (e.g., motor, sensory, autonomic) and where the nerve is located in the body. One or more types of nerve may be damaged.

Muscle weakness, cramps, and spasms are associated with motor nerve damage. In some cases, there may be loss of balance and coordination.

Sensory nerve damage can produce tingling, numbness, and pain. Pain associated with sensory nerve damage is variously described as:

• Sensation of wearing an invisible "glove" or "sock"
• Burning, freezing, or electric-like
• Extreme sensitivity to touch

If the autonomic nerves are damaged, involuntary functions may be affected. Symptoms that can result from this type of damage include abnormal blood pressure and heart rate, reduced ability to perspire, constipation, bladder dysfunction (e.g., incontinence), and sexual dysfunction.

Some neuropathies develop suddenly; others progress slowly, even over a number of years. Severity varies among individuals and may vary in the same individual throughout the day. Symptoms generally are more severe at night.

© 1998-2010 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Neuropathy Resources

	Join Our Neuropathy Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar.