Polyneuropathy manifests as numbness, tingling, and pain that can make everyday life difficult. At the Neurozentrum Filderstadt, we emphasize thorough diagnostics and individual therapy to enable targeted treatment. This way, you can regain more quality of life and security despite polyneuropathy.
Polyneuropathy: Causes, diagnosis, and modern treatment concepts
The nerve pathways of our body perform at their best every day by transmitting stimuli and information so that we can perceive our environment, move, and react to external influences. In polyneuropathy, however, these nerves are damaged, which can lead to a variety of complaints. Typical signs are tingling, numbness, pain, or muscle weakness in the hands and feet. Since these symptoms usually begin insidiously and intensify over time, the disease is often recognized late. At the
The causes of polyneuropathy can be as diverse as its manifestations. Often, a long-term elevated blood sugar level (such as in diabetes mellitus) is responsible. However, vitamin deficiencies, alcohol abuse, thyroid diseases, or autoimmune processes can also lead to damage to the peripheral nerves. Early diagnosis and targeted
Causes and symptoms
Polyneuropathy refers to a disease of several peripheral nerves. The causes for this can be metabolic, toxic, or immune-related. The most common triggers include diabetes mellitus, in which permanently elevated blood sugar levels damage the nerve pathways, as well as a deficiency of certain vitamins. Excessive alcohol consumption or an autoimmune reaction, in which the body’s own defense system attacks the nerve structures, are also known factors.
The symptoms of polyneuropathy typically occur in the areas that are furthest from the torso – that is, in the feet and hands. Paraesthesia such as tingling, burning, or numbness are characteristic. Some patients complain of pain, others of increasing muscle weakness. In the advanced stage, temperature sensation can also be disturbed. Timely treatment at the Neurozentrum Filderstadt is useful to improve the quality of life and prevent complications.
Diagnostic procedures
At the Neurozentrum Filderstadt, we place great emphasis on comprehensive and precise diagnostics before recommending a therapy for polyneuropathy. First, we take your medical history (anamnesis) and record possible risk factors, such as diabetes, alcohol abuse, or nutrition-related deficits. A detailed neurological examination helps to determine the severity and specific manifestation of the nerve disorder.
To confirm the diagnosis, various tests can be used, including electrophysiological measurements such as electroneurography (ENG) and electromyography (EMG). Laboratory tests, for example to determine vitamin levels or to check blood sugar, are also performed. Imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are useful in certain cases to rule out other possible causes of nerve damage. With the help of this well-founded diagnostics, we obtain a clear picture of your disease and can initiate a tailor-made treatment.
Therapy options (medication & non-medication)
The optimal therapy for polyneuropathy depends heavily on the underlying cause. If diabetes mellitus is present, the focus is initially on stable blood sugar control to slow the progression of nerve damage. In addition, there are medicinal options, for example, painkillers or active ingredients that specifically relieve nerve pain and reduce discomfort.
In addition to the medicinal approaches, we at the Neurozentrum Filderstadt also rely on non-medicinal therapy forms. These include targeted physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and, if necessary, special pain therapy procedures. A balanced diet and the correction of vitamin deficiencies can also be crucial in helping to slow the progression of polyneuropathy and improve general well-being. Each treatment is individually tailored and regularly reviewed to ensure the best possible adaptation to your progress.