Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve Damage in Extremities

Peripheral neuropathy = degeneration of nerves outside brain/spinal cord. Symptoms: numbness, tingling, pain, weakness in hands/feet. Causes: diabetes, autoimmune diseases, infections, toxins, trauma, nutritional deficiencies. Diagnosis: clinical exam, nerve conduction studies, labs. Treatment targets underlying cause + symptom management (gabapentin, duloxetine, topical agents).