6/08: Chao Cancer Center, University of California At Irvine

Why is peripheral neuropathy on the rise?
The Neuropathy Association® of New York estimates that over 20 million Americans suffer from peripheral neuropathy. Studies indicate that is over a 50% increase from 20 years ago. Many factors can account for this staggering rise. Diabetes which is a primary cause of neuropathy, is reaching epidemic proportions. Statistics from the American Diabetes Association indicate that over 23 million people—8% of the US population, has diabetes. The increase of the incidence of diabetes is due to aging of baby boomers, poor nutrition, a more sedentary life-style and obesity.

09/08: Neuropathy Support Group, Orange County, California

How can my feet be numb and hurt at the same time?
Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy range from total numbness to extreme sensitivity. Many diabetics for example, experience a complete loss of sensation in their feet. This is particularly dangerous because neuropathy makes diabetics vulnerable to infections, ulcerations and amputations. On the other end of the spectrum, some people with neuropathy experience severe sensitivity—to the point where they can hardly stand to have anything touch their feet.

Many people with peripheral neuropathy fall somewhere in the middle. Neuropathy sufferers often state that experience tingling, burning, cold sensation, or the feeling of “electric shocks.” This not exactly described as pain, but never the less neuropathy causes severe discomfort which can interfere with the quality of one’s life.

02/09: UCLA Neuropathy Support Group

Why are my neuropathy symptoms worse at night?
The obvious answer is that we are less distracted at night. During the day, we are bombarded by various stimuli such as bright lights, computers, and television. Work and other activities help prevent us thinking about pain. At night with the lights out and noise is at a minimum level, we are less distracted and focus more on the symptoms.

There also may be a physiological reason why people with peripheral neuropathy are more uncomfortable at night. It has been theorized that a substance called nitric oxide may be responsible for increasing localized circulation. During the day, when we are active, nitric oxide freely circulates throughout our bodies. At night, when we are less active, nitric oxide remains bound to the red blood cells. Without an adequate supply of nitric oxide, circulation is diminished—which in turn can cause more uncomfortable sensations.