what's causing my diffuse neuropathy

[sally0308]

I have tingling, pain and most recently burning sensation throughout my body including throat.  THe tingling and slight pain started off and on 3 weeks ago in my hands and feet.  Now it has spread to face,back, neck, arms and legs and is mostly a burning feeling.  No weekness, except occassionally heaviness feeling in arms and legs.  Also have pain in feet when wake up in am and stand--does not last long (this symptom I have actually had for a few months).  worse in am or when inactive for a while.  48 yr old female with no other medical problems.  Lab tests, metabolic, blood count (anemia), glucose, A1C, thyroid, CRP all normal.  ANA titer still pending.  No autoimmune history in family.  What do you think problem is?  Do neuropathies cause nerve damage?  what should my next course of action be?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the testing thus far.  I would add a B12 level, as deficiencies here can lead to neuropathic symptoms.  

Obtaining nerve conduction studies can evaluate for peripheral neuropathy, and an MRI performed to exclude central causes.

Neuropathies are the result of, not the cause of, nerve damage.

I would obtain a referral to a neurologist, and obtain some of the aforementioned tests.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com

[SadieSunflower]

It can be very difficult to find the cause of a neuropathy. If your currnet neurologist runs out of ideas then make sure you see a neurologist at an academic medical center like the Cleveland Clinic or Johns Hopkins.

I am trying to find the case of my diffuse neuropathy myself.

Best of Luck!