What is bilateral neuropathy?
bilateral neuropathy describes a number of nerve disorders that generally affect hands and legs, but may also include other systems into the body. The term bilateral means affecting the left and right side of the body. neuropathy is a blanket for any disease or nervous system disorder. In medical literature, bilateral neuropathy generally refers to a collection of symptoms affecting left and right arms and hands, or both left and right legs and legs. It is also commonly called peripheral neuropathy to distinguish it from other types of neuropathy that affect the central nervous system. If motor nerves are affected, muscle weakness and coordination problems may occur. If sensory nerves are affected, there will be a loss of feeling, dullness and armor. Pain is also a symptom with nerve botypes. Bilateral neuropathy in the feet can lead to an increased risk of falling due to muscle weakness or lack of coordination due to numbness.
The most common only cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes, which represents about 30% of diagnosed cases in the United States. Other causes may include vitamin deficiencies, exposure to toxins and systemic infection such as HIV. It has also been found that excessive use of alcohol or drugs causes neuropathy in some patients. Neuropathy may be the result of direct injury and can also be caused by hereditary conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Zub. In about 30% diagnosed neuropathy, the cause is not unknown.
Early diagnosis of bilateral neuropathy is important for slowing the progression of nerve damage and in some cases reverse existing damage before it becomes permanent. A diagnosis is often created by a neurology after studying the patient's medical history, including all basic conditions that can contribute to neuropathy. Physical examination in the office can reveal abnormalities in reflective reactions, svotinged reactions and strength of adhesion. Sometimes more detailed testing is required and may include an electromyogram (EMG) that studies muscle contractions, as well as tests of nervous lines.
The treatment of bilateral neuropathy begins with diagnosis and treatment of any basic or contributing causes such as diabetes. Physical therapy and ergotherapy may be necessary to relieve pain and improve mobility. Orthopedic devices, such as splints, can be worn to facilitate stabilization of the injured area during healing. Drugs are also commonly used to treat neuropathy; Painkillers and anticonvulsive drugs can be used to alleviate symptoms of bilateral neuropathy.