Neuropathy living patient overview

Overview

Neuropathy is a condition where the nerves that carry messages between your brain and the rest of your body are damaged. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness, most often in your hands and feet.

Yes, neuropathy is fairly common. It affects millions of people worldwide, particularly those with diabetes and older adults.

Neuropathy can affect people of any age, but it is more common in adults over 55 and those with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Numbness or tingling, often in the hands or feet.
• Sharp, burning, or shooting pain.
• Weakness in the arms or legs.
• Sensitivity to touch, making clothes or bedding feel uncomfortable.
• Loss of balance or coordination.

Symptoms in children

• Children may complain of 'pins and needles' or clumsiness.
• They might have trouble walking or holding objects.
• Pain or discomfort that is hard to describe.

Symptoms in older adults

• Numbness in the feet, increasing the risk of falls.
• Weakness that makes daily tasks harder.
• Burning or aching pain that affects sleep.

Causes

Main causes

• Diabetes (most common cause).
• Alcohol misuse over a long time.
• Vitamin deficiencies, especially B vitamins.
• Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
• Infections such as shingles or Lyme disease.

Risk factors

• Having diabetes, especially if blood sugar is not well controlled.
• Being over 55 years old.
• Family history of neuropathy.
• Certain medications, like some cancer treatments.
• Drinking too much alcohol.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Sudden loss of strength or control in your arms or legs.
• Injury to a numb foot that becomes red, swollen, or hot.
• Severe pain that does not get better with rest.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Ongoing numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands or feet.
• Trouble with balance or walking.
• If you have diabetes and notice any changes in your feet.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, health history, and do a physical exam. They may also check your reflexes, muscle strength, and ability to feel sensations.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests: to check for diabetes, vitamin levels, and other conditions.
• Nerve conduction studies: to measure how fast nerves send signals.
• Electromyography: to check the health of muscles and the nerves that control them.
• Sometimes a nerve biopsy (taking a small sample of nerve tissue) is needed.

What to expect at your appointment

The diagnostic process can take time because there are many possible causes. Your doctor will work with you to find the reason for your symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and address the underlying cause. Many people find good relief with a combination of self-care, medications, and therapy.

Self-care at home

• Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or sores, especially if you have diabetes.
• Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes to protect your feet.
• Avoid alcohol to prevent nerve damage from getting worse.
• Use safety aids like handrails and good lighting to prevent falls.

Medical treatments

Doctors may prescribe medications that help calm nerve pain, such as certain antidepressants or anti-seizure drugs. These are not your usual pain relievers. Physical therapy can help with strength and balance. Some people benefit from nerve blocks or topical creams. Always talk to your doctor about what treatment is right for you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is only needed in rare cases where neuropathy is caused by a compressed nerve, such as in carpal tunnel syndrome. Most types of neuropathy do not require surgery.

Living with this condition

Living with neuropathy can be challenging, but many people manage well with a daily routine that includes foot care, pain management, and staying active. Listen to your body and rest when needed.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay physically active with low-impact exercises like walking or swimming.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Get enough sleep to help your body heal.

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports nerve health. If you have diabetes, keeping blood sugar stable is very important. Gentle exercise improves blood flow and can reduce pain.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with chronic pain can be stressful and may lead to anxiety or depression. It is important to talk to your doctor about how you feel. Counselling or joining a support group can help.

Prevention

Not all types can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by managing conditions like diabetes, eating well, avoiding excessive alcohol, and staying active.

Vaccines

The shingles vaccine can help prevent shingles, which sometimes leads to neuropathy.

Screening programmes

If you have diabetes, regular foot exams by a healthcare professional can catch problems early.

Complications

If left untreated

• Worsening pain and numbness that can make walking or daily tasks difficult.
• Foot ulcers that may become infected and lead to amputation (especially with diabetes).
• Muscle weakness that increases the risk of falls and injuries.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control in severe cases.

Long-term outlook

Many people with neuropathy improve with treatment and lifestyle changes. While the damage may not always be reversible, symptoms can often be managed well, allowing you to live a full and active life. It is important to work with your healthcare team and stay positive.

Find support

Local organisations

• Your local health service · General

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