Neuropathy

Syllable breakdown

Dictionary meaning

A disease or dysfunction of one or more peripheral nerves, typically causing weakness, numbness, tingling, or burning pain, most commonly in the hands and feet; neuropathies can be caused by diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), alcohol abuse, infections, chemotherapy, autoimmune conditions, or genetic disorders.

Examples

• Poorly controlled diabetes had left him with painful neuropathy in both feet, making walking difficult.
• The oncologist warned that chemotherapy might cause neuropathy as a side effect, affecting sensation in the fingers and toes.

Synonyms: peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage, polyneuropathy