Krankheitsbilder

Polyneuropathy

Polyneuropathy (PNP) is a disease of the (peripheral) nerves that run in the extremities or trunk. Complaints can be very diverse. At the beginning, the main symptoms are often sensory irritation and loss of sensation, such as tingling, ants, hot or cold sensations, the feeling of being furry or like walking on absorbent cotton, sometimes there is also pain. Finally, as the disease progresses, unsteadiness of gait can occur (especially in the dark), muscle twitching (so-called fasciculations), muscle spasms, and muscle spasms. The diagnosis of PNP is based on the patient’s description of the symptoms and the examination findings. It is important to measure impulse conduction (nerve conduction velocity), as well as other examinations that check the functional capacity of the nerve (e.g., EMG), furthermore laboratory tests, and recently also genetic diagnostics.

Causes of a Disease of the Peripheral Nervous System

The causes are manifold: Environmental toxins, vitamin deficiencies, malnutrition, medications, or metabolic diseases such as diabetes or excessive alcohol consumption. Genetic causes are also known.

The treatment depends on the cause. In any case, it is important that the disease is detected as early as possible and its causes are found, because the damage that has occurred to the nerve is often difficult to reverse. Therefore, the earlier the cause is found, the better the chances of recovery. In addition, physical therapies and plenty of exercise will help you. We will be happy to advise you.