Every nerve in your peripheral system has a specific function, so symptoms depend on the type of nerves affected. Nerves are classified into:

• Sensory nerves that receive sensation, such as temperature, pain, vibration or touch, from the skin
• Motor nerves that control muscle movement
• Autonomic nerves that control functions such as blood pressure, heart rate, digestion and bladder

Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy might include:

• Gradual onset of numbness, prickling or tingling in your feet or hands, which can spread upward into your legs and arms
• Sharp, jabbing, throbbing or burning pain
• Extreme sensitivity to touch
• Pain during activities that shouldn't cause pain, such as pain in your feet when putting weight on them or when they're under a blanket
• Lack of coordination and falling
• Muscle weakness
• Feeling as if you're wearing gloves or socks when you're not
• Paralysis if motor nerves are affected

If autonomic nerves are affected, signs and symptoms might include:

• Heat intolerance
• Excessive sweating or not being able to sweat
• Bowel, bladder or digestive problems
• Changes in blood pressure, causing dizziness or lightheadedness