Peripheral Neuropathy: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as nerve pain in feet, numb feet and hands.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves of the hands and feet, causing numbness, tingling or burning pain — typically in a "glove and stocking" pattern. Diabetes is the leading cause in Nigeria; alcohol, vitamin deficiencies and some infections also damage nerves. Treating the cause early can stop it worsening.
Symptoms
Numbness or reduced feeling in feet or hands
Burning, tingling or "pepperish" sensation
Sharp or electric-shock pains
Pain worse at night
Unsteady walking
Wounds on the feet that go unnoticed
Causes & risk factors
Long-standing or poorly controlled diabetes
Heavy alcohol use
Vitamin B12 and other deficiencies
HIV and some of its older treatments
Kidney disease and certain medicines
Treatment & self-care
Treatment targets the cause — tight diabetes control, stopping alcohol, replacing deficient vitamins — while doctors can prescribe specific nerve-pain medicines (ordinary painkillers often work poorly). Inspect and protect numb feet daily, and wear covered shoes. Early review prevents silent foot injuries from becoming ulcers.
See a doctor urgently if
Numbness or burning feet, especially if diabetic
Any foot wound you cannot feel
Rapidly spreading weakness or numbness
Loss of balance or frequent falls
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Peripheral Neuropathy?
Early signs often include numbness or reduced feeling in feet or hands, burning, tingling or "pepperish" sensation, sharp or electric-shock pains. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Peripheral Neuropathy be treated?
Treatment targets the cause — tight diabetes control, stopping alcohol, replacing deficient vitamins — while doctors can prescribe specific nerve-pain medicines (ordinary painkillers often work poorly). Inspect and protect numb feet daily, and wear covered shoes. Early review prevents silent foot injuries from becoming ulcers.
When should I see a doctor about Peripheral Neuropathy?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: numbness or burning feet, especially if diabetic; any foot wound you cannot feel; rapidly spreading weakness or numbness; loss of balance or frequent falls.