Peripheral neuropathy

Overview

Other causes include low vitamin B12, alcohol, some medicines, and chemotherapy.

Numb feet can get injured without you knowing.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Numb or tingling hands or feet
• Burning feet

Less common

• Weakness
• Balance problems

When to get medical care

Causes

Diabetes, B12 deficiency, alcohol, medicines.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Diabetes
• Heavy drinking

Possible complications

• Diabetic foot ulcer

Diagnosis

A clinician checks feeling and reflexes.

Questions you may be asked

• Diabetes, alcohol, medicines

The exam

Foot exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood tests: Sugar, B12, thyroid.
• Nerve tests:

Treatment

Protect your feet.

Self-care

• Check your feet every day
• Wear well-fitting shoes
• Control blood sugar
• Limit alcohol

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To lower risk:

• Control blood sugar

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Make your home safe from falls: good lighting, no loose rugs, grab bars.
• Ask your doctor whether it's safe to drive.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Treating the cause can slow it.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• What's causing it?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Peripheral neuropathy