Polyneuropathy is a condition in which multiple peripheral nerves in the body are affected. These nerves send signals between the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body. Polyneuropathy can lead to a variety of symptoms, depending on the nerves affected, and often affects the hands and feet. It is important to recognize symptoms early to prevent further nerve damage. More info...
Common symptoms of polyneuropathy:
1. Sensory symptoms
These symptoms result from damage to the nerves responsible for sensation.
- Tingling or tingling: Especially in the hands, feet, toes or fingers, often worse at night.
- Numbness: A decreased or complete loss of sensation in the limbs.
- Pain: Burning, sharp or stabbing pain, usually in the extremities.
- Hypersensitivity: Pain or discomfort with slight touch or temperature changes.
2. Motor symptoms
Motor symptoms occur when the nerves that control muscles are affected.
- Muscle weakness: Difficulty walking, lifting, or other physical activities.
- Cramps: Painful muscle cramps in the legs or arms.
- Fine motor problems: Difficulty with actions such as writing or buttoning.
- Loss of muscle mass: Muscles can become thinner due to long-term nerve damage.
3. Balance and coordination problems
- Unstable walking: Difficulty maintaining balance due to decreased sensation in the feet.
- Falls: Loss of coordination and stability increases the risk of falling.
4. Autonomic symptoms
If the autonomic nerves are affected, the following symptoms may occur:
- Dizziness: Especially when standing up suddenly (orthostatic hypotension).
- Digestive problems: Nausea, constipation or diarrhea.
- Urinary problems: Difficulty urinating or incontinence.
- Irregular heartbeat: Problems with the regulation of heart rhythm.
- Sweat problems: Excessive or just reduced sweating.
How is polyneuropathy recognized?
Polyneuropathy often develops gradually, so symptoms may be subtle at first. They usually begin in the feet and hands (glove and cold pattern) and then expand. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Possible causes of polyneuropathy:
- Diabetes: Diabetic polyneuropathy is a common cause.
- Alcohol Abuse: Prolonged alcohol consumption can cause nerve damage.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies of vitamin B12, B1, or other nutrients.
- Autoimmune diseases: Like Guillain-Barré syndrome or lupus.
- Infections: Like Lyme or HIV.
- Hereditary disorders: For example, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
- Toxic exposure: To heavy metals or certain medications such as chemotherapy.
MediRelaxa massage chairs for symptom relief
Although a massage chair cannot cure polyneuropathy, a MediRelaxa massage chair can help relieve discomforts such as:
- Improved blood circulation: This can reduce tingling and improve sensation in the limbs.
- Pain relief: Gentle massages can help relieve nerve pain.
- Muscle relaxation: Reducing muscle tension can contribute to feeling more comfortable.
Regular use of a massage chair can also contribute to overall relaxation, which is beneficial for people with chronic pain.
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