Though not a rare condition, it is listed in the National Organization for Rare Diseases because of the many requests for information that the organization receives. Information on peripheral neuropathy is hard to come by and is not often written about in lay publications. It has been estimated that about two million persons in the United States live with this disorder. Polyneuropathy is an umbrella term for most neuropathies. It means that the condition is diffuse and symmetric usually beginning in the hands and feet.
Some neuropathies develop gradually over many years while others have a sudden onset.
There are many symptoms related to this disorder. Involves damage to motor nerves. In the upper extremities, symptoms include difficulty with ADL, such as carrying, opening jars, doorknobs, combing hair and dropping things. Unpleasant, abnormal sensations caused by touching the affected areas of the body. Total or partial loss of sensation may cause cuts, bruises or burns to occur.