Neuropathy is a condition that causes numbness throughout the body. The effects are often first noticed in the hands and feet and also include tingling, burning and pain. Neuropathy may become debilitating depending on the cause of the nerve damage.
Neuropathy affects feeling in the hands and feet
Types of Neuropathy
There are about 10 different types of neuropathy. The types depend on the cause--such as injury or disease--and have different degrees of debilitation.
Effects
Numbness of body parts is the major sign of neuropathy. Those who suffer from the disease often describe their hands and feet as having a "wooden" feeling and may stumble or drop things.
Complications
Neuropathy can cause the sufferer to not notice injuries to affected body parts. Untreated cuts can become infected, sometimes resulting in blood poisoning and gangrene.
More Severe Situations
Neuropathy caused by certain diseases, like diabetes, can spread to the inner organs. Lungs, heart and other organs can stop functioning in the most severe cases.
Reversed Neuropathy
Sometimes neuropathy can be reversed if the underlying condition is detected and treated. Even years of numbness and pain can be reversed by a strict regimen of care.
Tags: hands feet, body parts