Nerves run all over the body from head to toe. They are responsible for critical physiological functions. Nerve damage can result in grave dangerous prognosis, especially when it is unnoticed and untreated for long. It is quite prevalent, and thus, it is appropriate that you get to know of the common symptoms and seek therapy as soon as possible. Signs of nerve damage will vary depending on etiology and severity. However, some of the most common symptoms you can never miss in nerve damage include:
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1. Numbness and tingling
Strange sensation occurring most commonly on the extremities. There are several causes of numbness and tingling in the body. The numbness caused by nerve damage is unique, and one should be able to identify it together with other accompanying symptoms readily. Numbness is common in peripheral neuropathy, and you will have the sensation often on the feet, toe, and lower legs. Sometimes this can spread to the hands usually both hands. For foot pain, you should consider wearing insoles for neuropathy that can ease the symptoms by stimulating the nerves and providing additional cushioning support to your feet.The unusual prickling sensations associated with paresthesia may resolve after some minutes. If it gets persistent, then you should see a doctor.
2. Sharp or stabbing pain
The pain one will experience is characteristic and resembles electric shock or stabbing. Nerve pain due to somatosensory nerve damage can be continuous or episodic. The pain will arise from impulse not likely to cause pain in normal circumstances a condition known as dysesthesia. The neurons become hypersensitive. The nerves develop abnormal excitability. The “pin and needle sensation” is very uncomfortable and usually unresponsive to many medications. According to NeuropathyCure.org’s review, it is possible to manage the pain with minimal side effects. The healing process of the damaged nerve is often prolonged, and hence you have to be patient.
3. Muscle atrophy and weakness
The nerves play a crucial role in coordinating musculoskeletal system functions. Nerve damage can result in poor development of muscle and well as functions. You will find difficulties carrying out daily duties. Muscles will get unsteady, and one is likely to fail in performing simple muscle movements like buttoning up. Further, the affected person will be unstable and may topple easily on a slight impact. Even with full effort, one will be unable to produce the desired muscle contraction hence movements. Unlike in regular events, reduced muscle strength due to nerve damage is progressive and gets worse with time.
4. Too much or too little sweating
Hyperhidrosis or anhidrosis occurs when the damage is on the autonomic nervous system. Sweating is a physiological function that largely relies on the role of nerve stimulation. When the nerve function is compromised, an individual is likely to experience increased sweating or reduced sweating. Sweating, together with heart rate, will help one to confirm an incident of nerve damage.
5. Bladder dysfunction
The muscles and nerves are all vital for the proper functioning of the urinary system. Nerve damage can halt the messaging process directing the release of urine from the bladder. The nerves act to tighten the muscle or relax hence allow emptying. All these functions get lost in nerve damage, and one may have to frequent the toilets more often as they are not in control.
