Symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathic pain condition

In general, sufferers of peripheral neuropathic pain often describe their symptoms as a deep aching in their hands and feet. This may be accompanied by other symptoms often described as burning, stabbing or pricking (like pins and needles). Peripheral neuropathic pain sufferers may also be particularly sensitive to heat and cold.

Here are some of the more common symptoms and pain locations for the major conditions that contribute to peripheral neuropathic pain:

• Diabetes sufferers may report different kinds of pain, from numbness to tingling, or burning. For most, the pain appears in their feet first. Peripheral neuropathic pain may lead to foot ulcers in these patients. They may also experience pain behind their eyes and in their thighs. Approximately one quarter of diabetes patients report peripheral neuropathic pain.
• Up to 28% of HIV/AIDs sufferers report peripheral neuropathic pain symptoms, usually in their legs and feet, and may also be sensitive to heat and cold.
• Peripheral neuropathic pain associated with shingles, known as post-herpetic neuralgia, is extremely common, and the pain is often described as a constant tearing or burning sensation, and stabbing or electric-shock like.
• Repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, and herniated discs may also cause peripheral neuropathic pain.
• Chemotherapy and some cancers, particularly breast and lung cancer, are also conditions that can result in peripheral neuropathic pain. For example, people treated with certain chemotherapy drugs report being sensitive to cold.