Nerve Weakness: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Your nervous system controls your whole body. It controls everything from your moods to how well you can move. Any changes in your nervous system may affect the functioning of your entire body.

Nerve weakness symptoms are difficult to diagnose because so many different factors may cause them. For instance, it can be your age, stress, or infections caused by toxins. 

Nearly 2.4% of people worldwide have a form of peripheral neuropathy or nerve weakness. Nerve disorders may cause symptoms like fatigue, aches, and pain that do not look normal and may have any cause related to your pain history.

This article will teach us more about nerve weakness symptoms, treatment, causes, and more.

What is Nerve Weakness or Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral Neuropathy or nerve weakness is a condition that affects the nerves outside the brain or spinal cord. This might be due to several reasons, including trauma to infections, inherited conditions, or exposure to toxins. One of the biggest causes of nerve weakness causes is diabetes. Up to 70% of individuals with diabetes are affected by nerve damage, and this risk increases as the disease progresses.

What causes Nerve Weakness?

Neuropathy is very common. There are different types and causes. Sometimes, no causes can be found, as some nerve diseases run in families.

Other health conditions that may cause nerve weakness or neuropathy are- 

• Autoimmune disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
• Chronic kidney disease
• Infections like HIV/AIDS, shingles, and hepatitis C
• Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies like low levels of vitamin B1, B6, B12, or other vitamins
• Metabolic disease
• Some medications and toxins
• Underactive thyroid gland
• Bone marrow disorders
• Poisoning due to use of heavy metals, such as lead
• Poor blood flow to the legs
• Tumors
• Certain inherited disorders
• Diabetes is the most common cause of this type of nerve weakness. 
• High blood sugar levels over a long time may also affect your nerves.

Other factors that may lead to nerve damage or weakness are:

• Trauma, surgery, or pressure on a nerve
• Excessive consumption of alcohol
• Glue, lead, mercury, and solvent poisoning
• Medicines used in treatment of seizures, infections, cancer, and high blood pressure
• Pressure on a nerve, like from carpal tunnel syndrome
• Exposure to cold temperatures for a long period
• Pressure from bad-fitting casts, splints, a brace, or crutches

Who does Peripheral neuropathy or nerve weakness affect the most?

Nerve weakness or neuropathy is a common age-related disease. That means the risk of developing this disease increases with age. Although neuropathy or nerve weakness can affect anyone regardless of age, race, gender or ethnicity, health conditions, or hereditary, some people are at high risk of different types of peripheral neuropathy or nerve weakness. 

Brain Nerve Weakness Symptoms You Should Know.

There are many different symptoms of neuropathy or brain nerve weakness. The condition can affect a single nerve, a connected group of related nerves, or other body parts. The symptoms also depend on the type of nerve signal affected, such as motor, sensory, pain, and autonomic. 

Motor Symptoms

• Pain running down a single leg.
• Difficulty moving parts of the body

Sensory Symptoms

• Tingling, or burning sensation, means your nerves have problems sending signals.
• Loss of sensation or numbness, for instance, not feeling cold, smoothness or coldness, or the texture of things. 
• Imbalance and Clumsiness
• Nerve weakness or damage can cause malfunctions, and when the nerve sends signals, pain signals can make the pain more intense.

Autonomic Symptoms

Your body has several autonomic processes. These automatic functions happen without you even knowing them. They include sweating, digestion, blood pressure, and more. 

Disruption in autonomic signals means you can’t work properly. Here are some autonomic symptoms of peripheral neuropathy- 

• Blood pressure changes.
• Sweating too much or not enough 
• Bowel and bladder problems like constipation or diarrhea
• Sexual dysfunction
• Other symptoms include difficulty in coordination, brief, intense headaches, and frequent urination. 

How are Brain Nerve Weakness Symptoms Diagnosed?

Diagnosing neuropathy usually involves various methods, including-

• Symptoms and medical history- Your healthcare provider will ask you about your medical history and the recent changes or symptoms you are experiencing. They may ask about conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, nutrition, habits, or lifestyle.
• Physical and neurological symptoms—Your doctor will examine the physical symptoms of your condition, such as changes in sensation ability, changes in your flexes, and trouble walking or balancing.
• Lab, imaging, and other diagnostic tests- your doctor may suggest a basic blood test to detect conditions like diabetes, nutrient deficiencies, liver or kidney dysfunction, and abnormal immune system activity.

Other tests include MRI, Electromyogram, Nerve ultrasound, Nerve biopsy, and Genetic testing.

Treatment of Nerve Weakness 

Treating nerve weakness may vary from person to person, depending on the person's specific conditions and individual factors like medical history and personal preferences. Here are some common treatment options for nerve weakness include:

• Medications—Your doctor may recommend some oral pills, injections, patches, and slow-release drugs. 
• Surgery—Surgical procedures can reconnect damaged nerves, relieve trapped nerves, remove malfunctioning nerves, and reduce pain.
• Physical Therapy helps improve overall mobility, reduce pain, and prevent complications by adapting to nervous system changes.
• Devices and Equipment- Braces, canes, walkers, and specialized footwear assist in managing balance issues and also prevent complications, especially in diabetic neuropathy.
• Podiatry and Foot Care- Essential for those with foot-related complications, especially in diabetic neuropathy, to prevent infections or sores.
• Other Pain Treatments: For severe, persistent pain, other treatments, such as acupuncture, electrical nerve stimulation, and spinal cord stimulators, may be recommended. 

Consult your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you and your recovery expectations based on your condition.

How to Prevent Nerve Weakness?

Preventive tips can help to lower the risk of developing this condition. The most effective preventive tips include-

• Manage your blood sugar levels- People with diabetes must control their blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can contribute to nerve weakness or damage and worsen the condition. 
• Take a balanced and nutritious diet—Consuming a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and essential nutrients is one of the best home remedies for nerve weakness. A healthy diet supports your health, including vitamins B, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Stay physically active—Regular physical activity and weight management can help prevent the development of diabetes symptoms and reduce the risk of nerve weakness.
• Avoid Excessive Alcohol- Excessive alcohol intake can damage nerves over time. So, it is important to stop alcohol consumption to maintain nerve health and avoid nutritional deficiencies linked to alcohol use.
• Quit smoking- Smoking restricts blood flow to nerves, especially in extremities, increasing the risk of nerve damage. Quitting smoking helps maintain healthy blood flow and supports nerve function.
• Protect against injuries- Protect yourself when engaging in activities. Wear proper footwear and avoid repetitive strain to prevent nerve injuries.
• Limit exposure to toxins—Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and discuss with your doctor if medications may affect nerve health. 
• Managing Chronic Conditions—If you have a chronic health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, consult your doctor to take steps to manage it in a timely manner. 
• Routine Checkups—Regular medical checkups can detect early signs of nerve weakness, especially in individuals at higher risk, such as those with diabetes or autoimmune disorders. 

The final words

If you experience nerve weakness, tingling, or numbness, don't delay consulting your healthcare professional to determine the cause of your symptoms. 

If you do not take essential steps to prevent the symptoms from getting worse over time, it may negatively impact your life. Seeking medical help right away can help you diagnose the condition early and get the treatment you need. Early intervention can help control your symptoms and prevent further damage. 

FAQ’s

1. What are the symptoms of nerve weakness?

Nerve weakness, or nerve damage, can cause various symptoms, including pain and numbness, muscle weakness, headaches, coordination problems, and more.

2. How do I keep my nerves healthy?

Take a healthy, nutritious diet with all essential vitamins and minerals, engage in physical activity, control sugar levels, stay hydrated, and get proper sleep to keep your nerves healthy.

3. What vitamins are good for nerve weakness?

Vitamins B12, B6, and E are good for nerve health and may help support nerve function.

4. Can lifestyle changes help with nerve weakness management? 

Yes, lifestyle changes, including maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, sleep, and proper foot care, can help manage peripheral neuropathy and reduce its impact on daily life.