How to deal with polyneuritis
Peripheral polyneuropathy is a distinct form of neuritis — nerve damage that results in loss of sensation. Polyneuropathy specifically involves the simultaneous damage to multiple nerves, which is relatively rare. Since pure neuritis is very uncommon, most patients arriving at clinics suffer from various forms of polyneuropathy. Like all diseases affecting the nervous system, if left untreated, neuropathies can cause serious complications in body function.
Symptomatic Manifestations of Polyneuropathy
Polyneuropathy usually begins with a feeling of coldness (cold extremities) and excessive sweating. Further symptoms may include:
- Muscle weakness;
- Partial loss of sensation;
- Paralysis (paresis) and muscle atrophy;
- Severe pain in hands and feet;
- Changes in skin pigmentation.
If more than three of these symptoms are present, it is strongly recommended to immediately consult a physician for further diagnosis. Loss of sensitivity is especially dangerous because the ability to distinguish hot from cold or warm sensations disappears, increasing the risk of burns or frostbite.
Types of Polyneuropathy
Polyneuropathy is classified based on clinical presentation.
Primary polyneuropathy is often accompanied by fever and widespread sensory loss along the limbs. In the worst-case scenario, primary polyneuropathy may take an ascending course, leading to generalized muscle atrophy and, eventually, respiratory failure — which may result in a fatal outcome.
Secondary polyneuropathy can develop suddenly or progress very slowly. This form is typically identified through persistent numbness in the limbs, pale skin, sudden muscle weakness, and loss of tendon reflexes. Gradually, the skin on the affected limbs turns purplish, swells, and begins peeling. Walking independently becomes difficult.
Causes of Polyneuropathy
Polyneuropathy develops as a result of long-term chronic poisoning of the body due to alcohol, arsenic, mercury, or other toxins. In some cases, the condition can be triggered by prolonged use of certain medications during treatment of other illnesses such as:
- Inoperable malignant tumors;
- Leukemia;
- Vitamin deficiency (avitaminosis);
- Type 2 diabetes.
A mild form of polyneuropathy can even appear after consuming spoiled homemade cranberry or lingonberry jam.
Diagnosis of Polyneuropathy
Since this disease can occur at any age, diagnosis must take into account individual factors that may have acted as triggers. For example, elderly people may develop polyneuropathy from regular medication use, while diabetic patients often experience polyneuropathy as a common complication.
To accurately identify the underlying cause of polyneuropathy, comprehensive body diagnostics are necessary. At the “Berezoviy Gai” sanatorium, we use the innovative Nakatani method, which allows precise assessment of the function of all organs and systems in the body. Based on these findings, our doctors develop a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment of Polyneuropathy at the Sanatorium
The first step toward improving the condition of patients suffering from polyneuropathy is changing their usual environment to a calm and supportive one. Long walks in the surrounding forest, proper nutrition, and quality sleep play an important role in recovery. These natural therapies complement the medical program perfectly.
The unique treatment program developed by our specialists for managing polyneuropathy includes the following procedures:
- Intratissue electrostimulation according to A.A. Gerasimov’s method;
- Vitamin infusions or injections;
- Therapeutic medicinal blockades;
- Ointments that reduce swelling;
- Thermogly mud therapy.
Combined with a complex of medications, physiotherapy, and massage, these treatments produce noticeable improvement in the shortest possible time. At the sanatorium, you can also undergo an additional rehabilitation course to prevent future flare-ups of polyneuropathy.