Acquired Polyneuropathy
Acquired polyneuropathy is the occurrence of disease or disorder in many nerves at the same time. This condition occurs due to the presence of another disease or other cause that is not hereditary or present from birth.
Symptoms of Acquired Polyneuropathy
Complaints that can occur in people with acquired polyneuropathy can vary, depending on the cause and which nerves are affected.
Sufferers can experience movement disorders if the motor nerves are affected and can experience sensation disorders if the sensory nerves are involved.
In sensory nerve disorders, there can be a burning sensation, cold, pain, itching, swelling, and/or the inability to feel anything (numbness).
Meanwhile, other symptoms may include:
1. Random, strange sensations, known as paresthesia.
2. Sharp pain that appears suddenly.
3. A burning or tingling sensation, especially in the feet and hands, known as distal polyneuropathy.
4. Feeling very sensitive to touch (allodynia).
5. Numb.
6. Feeling weak in the legs or arms, sometimes due to weak or atrophied muscles.
7. Unable to walk straight, resulting in stumbling or falling.
8. Difficulty swallowing.
Risk Factors for Acquired Polyneuropathy
Risk factors for acquired polyneuropathy include having a disease that can cause multiple nerve disorders or damage, such as:
Diabetes. The disease is a significant risk factor, especially if blood glucose levels are not well controlled.
Excessive alcohol use. Alcohol can damage nerve tissue. Alcohol abuse is often associated with malnutrition, which contributes to acquired polyneuropathy.
Autoimmune conditions. The immune system attacking the body can cause damage to nerves and other areas. Autoimmune conditions that can increase the risk of acquired polyneuropathy include Sjogren’s syndrome, celiac disease, Guillain-Barre syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.
Bacterial or viral infections. Such as Lyme disease, shingles, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.
Disorders of the spinal cord. Examples include abnormal proteins in the blood, some types of bone cancer, and lymphoma.
Toxin exposure. For example, exposure to industrial chemicals, such as arsenic, lead, mercury, and thallium. Drug abuse can also increase the risk.
Hereditary disorders. Certain conditions such as Charcot Marie Tooth disease are forms of polyneuropathy.
Hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid can cause acquired polyneuropathy , although this is rare.
Kidney disease. According to Medical News Today, uremic neuropathy is a form of acquired polyneuropathy that affects 20 to 50 percent of people with kidney disease.
Liver disease. Studies show that people with cirrhosis of the liver are at high risk of developing polyneuropathy.
Medications. Chemotherapy and some medications a person takes to treat HIV/AIDS can cause acquired polyneuropathy.
Malnutrition. Deficiencies in vitamins B1, B6, B12, and E can increase the risk of polyneuropathy. This is because these vitamins are important for nerve health.
Trauma or physical injury. Repetitive movements such as typing, accidents, or other injuries can damage peripheral nerves.
Causes of Acquired Polyneuropathy
There are many diseases that can cause acquired polyneuropathy. One of the diseases that often causes polyneuropathy is diabetes mellitus.
In addition, diseases that can cause acquired polyneuropathy are:
1. Hypothyroidism.
2. Zotemia in renal failure.
3. vitamin B12 deficiency.
Autoimmune and inflammatory diseases can also cause acquired polyneuropathy, such as:
1. Streptococcal B infection.
2. Amyloid infection.
3. Sjogren’s syndrome.
4. Sacoit’s disease.
In some cases of polyneuropathy, no one knows the cause. This condition is known as idiopathic neuropathy.
Diagnosis of Acquired Polyneuropathy
Acquired polyneuropathy is diagnosed with a complete general examination. Supporting examinations that are in accordance with the symptoms that appear in the sufferer are also needed to determine the cause.
The diagnosis includes blood tests and other supporting examinations, such as:
MRI or CT scan. These tests can identify tumors, herniated disks, or abnormalities that may be affecting nerve function.
Electrodiagnostic testing. This non-invasive test measures electrical activity in muscles and nerves, helping to detect nerve damage.
Biopsy. The doctor may remove a small piece of nerve or a skin sample, to test for abnormalities in the function or nerve endings.
Acquired Polyneuropathy Treatment
Early examination to get a diagnosis is crucial in the effectiveness of therapy. The sooner the diagnosis is made, the faster and better the possible results of the therapy given. The main therapy for acquired polyneuropathy is to treat the cause.
Some of the treatments available include medications, medical therapies and procedures, and alternative treatments.
1. Medicines
There are several types of medications that a person can use to treat polyneuropathy and its symptoms, including:
Treatment for related conditions. Conditions that cause polyneuropathy should be treated promptly through a variety of treatments. This includes medication, if recommended by your doctor. For example, insulin for conditions caused by diabetes and thyroid hormone for hypothyroidism.
Pain medication. Over-the-counter pain relievers are helpful for mild to moderate pain. However, you should not take these medications long-term.
Prescription medications. Some antidepressants may be used. Corticosteroid injections may also be used for mononeuropathy. Additionally, some anti-seizure medications such as gabapentin or pregabalin may also help relieve symptoms.
2. Medical therapy
Medical procedures available to treat acquired polyneuropathy include:
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. This can help with pain and sensitivity.
Plasma exchange. People with inflammatory or autoimmune conditions may benefit from this therapy. The procedure involves removing blood from the body, then separating antibodies and other proteins from the blood, before returning the blood to the body.
Immunoglobulin therapy. People with inflammatory and autoimmune conditions are given high amounts of proteins, which act as antibodies. This procedure can help the immune system function.
Physical therapy. People who have muscle weakness or coordination problems may need physical therapy.
Orthotics and other devices. For example, braces, casts, splints, walkers, and wheelchairs can provide support.
Surgery. If the polyneuropathy condition is caused by pressure on the nerves, a surgical procedure may be recommended.
3. Alternative treatments
Alternative treatments can also provide comfort for some people with acquired polyneuropathy. However, alternative treatments usually still need to be accompanied by medical treatment.
Some examples of alternative treatments that provide benefits are:
1. Acupuncture.
2. Chiropractic care.
3. Massage.
4. Meditation.
However, this alternative treatment is still understudied. It is best to discuss it with your doctor first if you want to try it.
Prevention of Acquired Polyneuropathy
Prevention of acquired polyneuropathy is by limiting risk factors and managing underlying conditions. A person with polyneuropathy may not be able to avoid all risk factors. However, some lifestyle choices can reduce the risk. For example by:
1. Avoid alcohol consumption.
2. Avoid exposure to toxins, including cigarette smoke.
3. Prevent trauma or physical injury, such as repetitive actions and positions that restrict body movement.
4. Getting enough sleep and physical activity supports immune function.
5. Eat a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals.
6. Taking vitamin B12 supplements if a person is on a vegetarian diet.
Complications of Acquired Polyneuropathy
Complications of acquired polyneuropathy are that it can inhibit activity and can cause unnoticed injuries. If not treated, it can be fatal in some cases.