Neuropathy: symptoms, causes and which doctor to see
Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. The most common cause is diabetes. It usually starts in the toes with numbness, tingling, burning and loss of feeling. Controlling the underlying cause slows its progression.
Which doctor should I see for neuropathy?
For neuropathy you can first see: Neurology or Internal Medicine. If you are not sure, a family doctor can refer you to the right specialist.
What are the symptoms of neuropathy?
- Numbness in a stocking-and-glove pattern, first in the feet then the hands
- Burning or pins-and-needles pain, especially at night
- Loss of feeling in the feet and unnoticed sores
- Loss of balance
- Muscle weakness
What causes neuropathy?
The most common causes are listed below. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
- 1Diabetes
- 2Vitamin B12 deficiency
- 3Alcohol
- 4Underactive thyroid and kidney failure
- 5Some medicines and chemotherapy
- 6Immune diseases
When is it an emergency? Call 112 now
- Is there weakness spreading quickly up from the legs over days
- Is there difficulty breathing
- Is there a foot sore that will not heal or is turning black
- Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up
- Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg
- Are you struggling to breathe even at rest
What you can do at home
- If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar on target.
- Check your feet every day; you can use a mirror.
- Do not walk barefoot; test water temperature with your elbow, not your hand.
- Stop drinking alcohol.
See a doctor if
- Numbness and burning have lasted for weeks
- There is a foot sore or colour change
How long does it last and how is it treated?
Symptoms can be reduced with treatment of the cause and medicines that work on nerve pain. With some causes such as B12 deficiency, early treatment brings marked improvement.
Treatment options for neuropathy
See how each treatment is done, how long it takes and which doctors offer it in your city. Your doctor will decide which option suits you after an examination.
Find a neurologist in your city
Neurologists in Turkish cities who can help with neuropathy.
People also describe it as
- “My feet burn and are numb”
- “My feet have lost feeling because of diabetes”
- “Neuropathy”
Frequently asked questions
Which doctor should I see for neuropathy?
For neuropathy you can first see: Neurology or Internal Medicine. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.
What are the symptoms of neuropathy?
Common symptoms: numbness in a stocking-and-glove pattern, first in the feet then the hands; burning or pins-and-needles pain, especially at night; loss of feeling in the feet and unnoticed sores; loss of balance; muscle weakness. Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.
What causes neuropathy?
The most common causes: diabetes; vitamin B12 deficiency; alcohol; underactive thyroid and kidney failure; some medicines and chemotherapy; immune diseases. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
How long does neuropathy last and how is it treated?
Symptoms can be reduced with treatment of the cause and medicines that work on nerve pain. With some causes such as B12 deficiency, early treatment brings marked improvement.
What is a neuropathy test?
Nerve function is assessed with nerve conduction studies and EMG; blood sugar, B12 and thyroid tests are also ordered.
When is neuropathy an emergency?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is there weakness spreading quickly up from the legs over days?” “Is there difficulty breathing?” “Is there a foot sore that will not heal or is turning black?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”
When should I see a doctor for neuropathy?
See a doctor: numbness and burning have lasted for weeks; there is a foot sore or colour change.
Similar complaints
Emergency numbers in Turkey
112: ambulance, emergency (free, 24/7, from any phone). 114: National Poison Information Centre. 182: appointment line for public hospitals (MHRS). Pharmacies on night duty (nöbetçi eczane) are posted on the door of every pharmacy.
Sources
This page is based on current information published by the official and independent bodies below and on our editorial principles. Last updated: . To report an error: contact us.
This page does not provide a medical diagnosis and does not replace an examination by a doctor. If you think it is an emergency, call 112 (Turkey’s free emergency number). For poisoning, call the National Poison Information Centre on 114.