Neuropathic Pain
The brain and spinal cord constitute the CNS, while the PNS controls the remainder of the body, including the organs, limbs, fingers, and toes. When nerve fibers become damaged, it causes the brain to receive false pain signals. Alterations in nerve function may occur at the site of nerve injury and in the brain and spinal cord, known as central sensitization. If the nerves that carry sensations from the skin, muscles, and other body regions are damaged, this may lead to a painful condition known as neuropathic pain. Most patients describe the pain as a burning sensation, and the areas feel more sensitive to touch.
Other neuropathic pain symptoms include “spontaneous pain,” characterized by a sharp knife slicing through the flesh or an electric shock jolting the nerves. Moreover, “evoked pain” refers to pain heightened by a stimulus that typically feels like pinprick or heat. Dysesthesia in neuropathic pain can involve both evolved and spontaneous pain. In addition, roughly 30% of all occurrences of neuropathic pain may be attributed to diabetes. Controlling neuropathic pain is challenging and may significantly impact mental health and quality of life. This symptom is typically at its worst in the evenings and mornings and can severely disturb sleep cycles.
