Best Doctors for Peripheral Neuropathy in Chennai

Types/Stages of Peripheral Neuropathy

The manifestations of peripheral neuropathy include:

• Mononeuropathy: Involves damage to a single nerve, often due to trauma or compression.

• Polyneuropathy: Comprises multiple nerves, presenting a more generalized pattern of nerve damage.

• Autonomic Neuropathy: Affects nerves that control involuntary functions, leading to abnormal blood pressure or gastrointestinal problems.

• Focal Neuropathy: Impacts specific nerves, causing sudden weakness or pain in isolated areas.

Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy

The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are:

• Numbness, tingling or burning sensations often start in the hands and feet

• Muscle weakness and cramps that can affect coordination and balance

• Abnormal blood pressure, heart rate, sweating or digestive issues

• Sharp, stabbing or throbbing pain which can be constant or intermittent

Tests to Diagnose Peripheral Neuropathy

The diagnosis by doctors for peripheral neuropathy treatment involves several steps:

• Medical History: Reviewing symptoms, medical history and potential exposure to toxins or infections

• Physical Examination: Checking muscle strength, reflexes and sensory function.

• Blood Tests: Detecting underlying conditions like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies.

• Nerve Function Tests: Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve conduction studies (NCS) are used.

Imaging Studies: MRI or CT scans for nerve compression or structural issues.

Treatment Options for Peripheral Neuropathy at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

At Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, the following treatment options are available by peripheral neuropathy specialists for managing it. These are:

• Medications: Anticonvulsants, antidepressants and opioids may be prescribed by a peripheral neuropathy doctor to manage symptoms.

• Lifestyle Changes: Recommendations may be made for maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly and avoiding substances like alcohol and tobacco.

• Pain Management: Techniques such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can be used to reduce pain.

• Surgical Intervention: In some cases, surgical decompression may be necessary if the condition is caused by nerve compression.

Apollo Hospitals in Chennai also houses highly trained peripheral neuropathy surgeon doctors to provide the most effective treatment if needed.