(^542) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
- Massage.
- Deep breathing and meditation.
- Biofeedback.
Peripheral Neuropathy
This is the degeneration or disease of the peripheral nerves that affect motor
and/or sensory nerves. The peripheral nerves include all but the brain and spinal
cord.WHAT WENT WRONG?
The neuropathies are poorly understood. When peripheral nerves are damaged,
the brain becomes confused when processing communication from the damaged
nerves. Pain or numbness may be out of proportion to the damage or may be pres-
ent where skin and tissue are intact. Peripheral neuropathy may affect motor nerves,
sensory nerves, or both. It is often a sequelae (secondary result) of poorly con-
trolled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, hypothyroidism, toxic substances, HIV/AIDS,
vitamin deficiencies, alcohol abuse, or some infections.PROGNOSIS
Treating the underlying disease state may help to relieve the pain. Often, treating
the pain is the best option.HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Symptoms result from pressure on the nerve or damage to the nerve, either sen-
sory or motor.- Pain.
- Numbness.
- Tingling.
- Muscle weakness.
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