Peripheral neuropathy
Diabetes is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy in the UK.
Neuropathy can also be caused by other health conditions andcertain medications. In some cases, no causecan beidentifiedand this is termed idiopathic neuropathy.
Peripheral neuropathycaused byeither Type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes is called diabetic polyneuropathy.It's probably caused by high levels of glucose in your blood damaging the tiny blood vessels that supply your nerves.
Peripheral neuropathy becomes more likely the longer you've had diabetes. Up to one in every four people with the condition experience some pain caused by nerve damage.
If you have diabetes, your risk of polyneuropathy is higher if your blood sugar is poorly controlled or you:
If you have diabetes, you should examine your own feet regularly to check for ulcers (open wounds or sores) or chilblains.
As well as diabetes, there are many other possible causes of peripheral neuropathy.
Some of the health conditions that can cause peripheral neuropathy include:
A few medications may sometimes cause peripheral neuropathy as a side effect in some people. These include:
Read about peripheral neuropathy, a term for a group of conditions in which the peripheral nervous system is damaged.
The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy vary according to the type of peripheral neuropathy you have. They may develop quickly or slowly
Read about the causes of peripheral neuropathy. In the UK, the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes.
Read about how peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed. A number of tests can be used to diagnose peripheral neuropathy and any underlying cause.
Read about treatments for peripheral neuropathy, which may include treating any underlying cause as well as any symptoms you're experiencing.
Read about complications of peripheral neuropathy including foot ulcers, gangrene and cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN)