What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a collection of disorders that happens when the nerves of the peripheral nervous system are damaged. The peripheral system includes nerves that are outside the brain and spinal cord. The condition normally occurs after a person suffers damage to the nerve axons. This damage can come from traumatic injuries, metabolic disorders, dangerous toxins, or infections. One of the most common forms of neuropathy is diabetes.

So what is neuropathy? Neuropathy can affect the nerves that cause muscle movement, essentially paralyzing parts of the victim’s body. As well, the illness can affect the sensory nerves, making it unable for a person to feel temperatures or textures. It can also eliminate a person’s ability to feel pain in the affect areas, which can be dangerous. In some cases, neuropathy can even affect the internal organs like the intestines, blood vessels, or heart. These cases of the condition can be extremely serious.

Those that have neuropathy often describe a tingling or burning sensation in the affected areas. About 20 million United States residents suffer from neuropathy, and over half of all diabetes patients are also diagnosed with this condition. The condition is categorized under three main categories: mononeuropathy, multiple mononeuropathy, and polyneuropathy.

While about 30% of all neuropathy cases are idiopathic, there are times that the condition can be attributed to a specific injury or accident. For example, trauma or pressure on nerves can cause the condition. Some people report that they have developed neuropathy after continuously typing on a keyboard. Others claim that a collision, such as a car accident or pedestrian accident caused trauma to the nerves and resulted in neuropathy.

Also, some patients get the illness after they are exposed to toxins such as heavy metals or certain medications. If you have developed neuropathy due to another person’s carelessness or negligence, then you have the right to contact a New York personal injury attorney today for more information. You may be able to sue for the past and future damages associated with your condition!