What is idiopathic neuropathy?

June 17, 2025


Neuropathy No More By JODI KNAPP Neuropathy No More is an eBook which is a compilation of all the essential information and details about the nervous system and how to keep it active and healthy. With the help of this program, one can get a relief from the symptoms of neuropathy. This eBook not only tells you about the nervous system, but also helps to provide essential information to get relief from the condition of neuropathy. It also provides information about how you can prevent this condition from coming back in the near future.


What is idiopathic neuropathy?

Idiopathic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage where the cause is unknown despite thorough medical evaluation. The word “idiopathic” means the origin or cause cannot be identified.

What Is Idiopathic Neuropathy?
It’s diagnosed when all known causes of neuropathy (like diabetes, infections, toxins, autoimmune diseases, or hereditary conditions) have been ruled out.

Most commonly affects sensory nerves, causing symptoms like numbness or tingling, especially in the feet and hands.

Usually develops slowly and is often seen in older adults.

Symptoms
Numbness or tingling in the feet and hands

Burning or stabbing pain

Loss of balance or coordination

Sensory loss or unusual sensations

Diagnosis
Extensive testing to exclude other causes (blood tests, imaging, nerve conduction studies)

Diagnosis is by exclusion when no other cause is found.

Summary
Idiopathic neuropathy is nerve damage without an identifiable cause, typically presenting with sensory symptoms. It tends to be chronic and progressive but often mild to moderate.

Would you like information on how to manage idiopathic neuropathy symptoms or what tests are commonly done?

Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN) is a type of peripheral neuropathy that primarily affects the small nerve fibers responsible for transmitting pain, temperature sensations, and autonomic functions.

What is Small Fiber Neuropathy?
Definition: Damage to the small unmyelinated or thinly myelinated nerve fibers (A-delta and C fibers).

Functions affected: Sensory (pain and temperature) and autonomic nervous system functions.

Large nerve fibers, which control vibration, proprioception, and motor function, are usually spared.

Symptoms
Sensory symptoms:

Burning pain

Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation

Sharp, stabbing pain

Hypersensitivity to temperature changes

Numbness (typically distal, starting in feet and hands)

Autonomic symptoms:

Abnormal sweating

Dry eyes or mouth

Gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., diarrhea, constipation)

Dizziness upon standing (orthostatic hypotension)

Causes
Idiopathic (unknown cause) in many cases.

Diabetes mellitus (most common cause).

Autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus).

Infections (e.g., HIV, hepatitis C).

Genetic disorders (e.g., Fabry disease).

Toxic exposures (e.g., chemotherapy, toxins).

Vitamin deficiencies (e.g., B12).

Diagnosis
Clinical evaluation based on symptoms.

Skin biopsy to assess small fiber density (gold standard).

Quantitative sensory testing.

Autonomic function tests for autonomic symptoms.

Nerve conduction studies usually normal, since large fibers are unaffected.

Treatment
Treat underlying cause if identified.

Pain management with medications (e.g., anticonvulsants, antidepressants).

Supportive therapies and lifestyle changes.

Let me know if you want more details on diagnostic procedures or treatment options for small fiber neuropathy!


Neuropathy No More By JODI KNAPP Neuropathy No More is an eBook which is a compilation of all the essential information and details about the nervous system and how to keep it active and healthy. With the help of this program, one can get a relief from the symptoms of neuropathy. This eBook not only tells you about the nervous system, but also helps to provide essential information to get relief from the condition of neuropathy. It also provides information about how you can prevent this condition from coming back in the near future.