Have you ever gotten the feeling that your body is trying to tell you something? Well, in truth, it is–all the time. The reason why you grab a blanket when your feet are cold, or often run in the opposite direction when faced with danger, is because your peripheral nervous system has sent a message back to your brain to respond to the given stimuli appropriately. The seamless communication between your peripheral nervous system and your central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord) is vital to your own self-preservation. However, for an estimated 20 million Americans, that communication has become less than seamless, leading them to suffer from one form or another of a condition called peripheral neuropathy (damaged or diseased nerves). If you believe yourself to be one of these 20 million Americans, schedule an appointment with Three Village Neurology for help with a neurologist in Port Jefferson.
Diagnosing Peripheral Neuropathy
Being that there are many known forms of peripheral neuropathy, it would be very difficult to come to an accurate diagnosis of your particular case without the aid of our neurologist in Port Jefferson, Dr. James Bruno. The causes of peripheral neuropathy are vast, which is why the recording of an accurate medical history is a critical first step in our treatment process. We will ask questions related to your personal experience with any of the following:
- Traumatic Nerve Damage
- Diabetes
- Alcoholism
- Cancer
- Kidney Failure
- Vitamin Deficiency
- Shingles
Once an accurate medical history has been recorded, our neurologist in Port Jefferson will examine your symptoms in order to determine the type of nerve damage that you are suffering from. Because damage to your neurons cannot be reversed, early diagnosis and intervention are key. The peripheral nervous system is made up of the following three categories of nerves, each with their own symptoms in relation to peripheral neuropathy:
Sensory Nerves: receptors of sensation on the skin. Damage to these nerves can cause:
- Sharp temporary pains
- Tingling or numbness
- Erratic burning hot or freezing cold sensations
Motor Nerves: responsible for controlling muscle movement. Damage to these nerves can cause:
- Muscle weakness and cramps
- Loss of coordination
- Frequent twitching
Autonomic Nerves: responsible for regulating the function of every organ in the body. Damage to these nerves can cause:
- Unstable blood pressure
- Digestive complications
- Profuse sweating
Treating Peripheral Neuropathy
After ordering a series of blood tests, MRI scans, or nerve function tests to confirm the diagnosis of your particular case of peripheral neuropathy, our neurologist in Port Jefferson will devise the most effective treatment plan possible. Common treatment plans for peripheral neuropathy include:
- Lifestyle Advice
- Medication (if it relates to an underlying cause, such as diabetes)
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- Physical therapy
How To Find Us
Our team at Three Village Neurology understands the potential impact that peripheral neuropathy can have on your ability to live life to the fullest. However, we also understand that by choosing to receive treatment from our neurologist in Port Jefferson, you will be giving yourself the best possible chance of continuing to enjoy the life you love for a long time to come.
