Neuropathy

Neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves that carry signals for sensation, movement, and autonomic functions. Symptoms often begin gradually with numbness, tingling, burning pain, or weakness—frequently in the feet and hands. Because many conditions can cause or worsen neuropathy (diabetes, thyroid disease, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, toxins, infections, and medications), targeted blood tests are a practical first step.

A proactive lab approach starts with general health and metabolic screens (CBC, CMP, A1c/glucose, TSH) and vitamin B12 with methylmalonic acid (MMA), then expands to protein studies (SPEP/IFE)autoimmune panelsheavy metals, and infection tests when history points that way. Blood tests support screeningdiagnostic triage, and monitoring trends, but they do not replace a neurologic exam, nerve conduction studies/EMGskin biopsy for small-fiber neuropathy, or imaging when indicated.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Sensory: numbness, tingling (“pins and needles”), burning pain, allodynia (pain from light touch), reduced vibration/position sense

  • Motor: weakness, foot drop, hand clumsiness, muscle cramps, frequent tripping, decreased reflexes

  • Autonomic: dizziness on standing, sweating changes, heat/cold intolerance, bowel or bladder changes, erectile dysfunction

  • Pattern clues: stocking-glove distribution (length-dependent), asymmetry, sudden onset, or rapidly progressive symptoms

  • Risk & exposure: diabetes/prediabetes, thyroid disease, heavy alcohol use, chemotherapy or other neurotoxic meds, nutritional issues, bariatric surgery, celiac disease, autoimmune disease, tick exposure (Lyme), HIV/hepatitis risk, occupational metals/solvents

  • Seek urgent care now: sudden severe weakness, rapidly ascending paralysis, breathing trouble, stroke-like symptoms, high fever with stiff neck, or new seizures

All symptoms and risks should be reviewed by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Identify reversible contributors (high A1c, low B12/folate, abnormal thyroid, toxin exposure)

  • Differentiate patterns suggesting immunemetabolictoxic, or monoclonal causes (via autoantibodies, metals, SPEP/IFE)

  • Guide next steps by prioritizing EMG/NCS, imaging, or specialist referral; track trends over time

What testing cannot do

  • Diagnose neuropathy on blood tests alone—electrodiagnostics and clinical evaluation are often required

  • Replace a full medication/supplement review (e.g., excess vitamin B6 can cause neuropathy)

  • Provide treatment or dosing advice—interpret results with your clinician

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Metabolic & general health: A1c/fasting glucose (diabetes/prediabetes), CMP (kidney/liver, electrolytes), CBC(anemia/infection), lipid panel (vascular risk).

  • Thyroid: TSH ± Free T4—hypo/hyperthyroidism can contribute to neuropathy and fatigue.

  • Vitamin & nutrition: Vitamin B12 with MMA (functional B12 deficiency), folatevitamin Dthiamine (B1)vitamin B6 (both deficiency and excess can cause neuropathy)vitamin?E (select cases).

  • Protein disorders: SPEP/IFE to detect monoclonal proteins (MGUS/MM) linked to neuropathy.

  • Autoimmune & inflammation: ESR/CRPANA (± ENA/dsDNA), SSA/SSB (Sjögren), RF/anti-CCP (RA context), ANCAcomplements (C3/C4)anti-ganglioside (GM1, GD1a, GQ1b) and anti-MAG for specific neuropathies.

  • Infections (when indicated): HIV 4th-generationsyphilis (RPR/treponemal), Lyme two-tier testing, hepatitis B/C.

  • Toxins & metals: lead, mercury, arseniccopper/ceruloplasminammonia (encephalopathy).

  • Neuromuscular injury context: CK and aldolase to screen for myopathy if weakness predominates.

  • Celiac-neurology link: tTG-IgA with total IgA (or DGP) for gluten-related neuropathy/ataxia.

Quick Build Guide

Clinical goal Start with Add if needed
New distal numbness/tingling A1c • TSH • B12 + MMA • CMP • CBC Folate • Vitamin D • B1/B6
Painful small-fiber symptoms A1c • B12 + MMA • TSH SSA/SSB • tTG-IgA • Lipids • B1/B6
Weakness or motor-predominant signs CK • CMP • TSH Anti-ganglioside • Anti-MAG • ESR/CRP • EMG/NCS (clinical)
Suspected immune neuropathy ESR/CRP • ANA SSA/SSB • ANCA • Anti-ganglioside • Complements C3/C4
Monoclonal protein concern (age >50 or red flags) SPEP/IFE Serum free light chains (clinician-directed)
Exposure risk (work/hobby, new meds) CMP • CBC Lead • Mercury • Arsenic • Copper/Ceruloplasmin
Infection risk HIV 4th-gen • Syphilis tests Lyme two-tier • Hep B/C

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Pick a starting set using the Quick Build Guide and your symptoms.

  2. Provide samples: standard blood draw; fasting only if fasting glucose/lipids are included.

  3. List supplements/meds: especially vitamin B6, alcohol use, chemotherapy, or other neurotoxic agents.

  4. Review results with your clinician: abnormal screens trigger targeted add-ons and often EMG/NCS or other studies.

  5. Trend key markers: repeat labs to confirm abnormalities, watch metabolic control (A1c), and monitor safety.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • A1c elevated or rising: supports diabetic/prediabetic neuropathy; trends matter.

  • Low B12 with elevated MMA: indicates functional B12 deficiency; correlate with symptoms.

  • TSH abnormal: thyroid disease can mimic or worsen neuropathy symptoms.

  • SPEP/IFE monoclonal band: consider MGUS-related neuropathy; needs clinician follow-up.

  • High vitamin B6: may cause sensory neuropathy—review supplement doses.

  • Positive autoimmune antibodies (anti-ganglioside/anti-MAG, SSA/SSB): suggest immune-mediatedmechanisms; coordinate specialist care.

  • Heavy metals elevated: indicate toxic exposure—address promptly with your clinician.
    Blood tests are context tools; diagnosis and care plans rely on clinical evaluation and, often, EMG/NCS or skin biopsy.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Foundational neuropathy panel: A1c • TSH • B12 + MMA • CMP • CBC

  • Immune neuropathy add-ons: ESR/CRP • ANA • SSA/SSB • ANCA • Anti-ganglioside • Anti-MAG • Complements

  • Monoclonal screen: SPEP/IFE (± free light chains per clinician)

  • Toxin panel: Lead • Mercury • Arsenic (± copper/ceruloplasmin)

  • Infection panel (risk-based): HIV • Syphilis • Lyme • Hep B/C

  • Vitamin/nutrition set: Folate • Vitamin D • B1 • B6 • Vitamin E

FAQs

Can blood tests diagnose neuropathy by themselves?
No. Labs find causes and guide next steps. Diagnosis often needs EMG/NCS or skin biopsy.

Which labs are best to start with?
Most begin with A1c, TSH, B12 + MMA, CMP, and CBC. Add tests based on symptoms and risks.

Do I need to fast?
Only if your order includes fasting glucose or fasting lipids.

Can too much vitamin B6 cause neuropathy?
Yes. High B6 can cause sensory neuropathy. Tell your clinician about all supplements.

What if my B12 is “normal” but I still have symptoms?
MMA helps detect functional B12 deficiency even when serum B12 looks normal.

I’ve had chemo—should I test?
Chemotherapy can cause neuropathy. Labs help rule out additional causes; discuss with your clinician.

When should I see a neurologist?
If symptoms are progressive, asymmetric, motor-predominant, or disabling, or labs are clearly abnormal.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Neurological Disorders Tests Hub

  • Blood Tests for Neurological Disorders • Diabetes Health • Thyroid Tests • Vitamin & Nutrient Tests • Heavy Metal Tests • Infectious Disease (HIV, Syphilis, Lyme) • Autoimmune Panels

  • Key Tests: A1c • Fasting Glucose • CMP • CBC • TSH/Free T4 • Vitamin B12 + MMA • Folate • Vitamin D • Thiamine (B1) • Vitamin B6 • SPEP/IFE • ESR/CRP • ANA/ENA • SSA/SSB • ANCA • Complements (C3/C4) • Anti-ganglioside (GM1, GD1a, GQ1b) • Anti-MAG • HIV 4th-gen • Syphilis (RPR/treponemal) • Lyme two-tier • Hepatitis B/C • Lead • Mercury • Arsenic • Copper/Ceruloplasmin • CK • Aldolase • tTG-IgA + total IgA

References

  • American Academy of Neurology — Practice guideline update: Distal symmetric polyneuropathy evaluation.
  • American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine — Guidelines on the evaluation of neuropathy.
  • American Diabetes Association — Standards of Care: Neuropathy screening and glycemic targets.
  • Infectious Diseases Society of America — Lyme disease testing recommendations.
  • NIH Office of Dietary Supplements — Vitamin B12 and Vitamin B6 fact sheets.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — HIV and Syphilis testing guidance.
  • Clinical reviews on monoclonal gammopathy–associated neuropathy and immune-mediated neuropathies.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Neuropathy Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with a foundational screen (A1c, TSH, B12 + MMA, CMP, CBC). Use filters to add autoimmune panelsSPEP/IFEheavy metalsvitamin sets, and infection screens based on your history. Follow any prep instructions (fasting when included) and review results with your clinician to plan electrodiagnostic testing and next steps.

  • Page
  • 2
  • of
  • 3
  • Total Rows
  • 68
Name Matches

The Hepatic Function Panel Test measures liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin to assess liver health and function. It includes ALT, AST, ALP, albumin, total protein, and bilirubin levels. Abnormal results may indicate hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver, or bile duct problems. Doctors use this test to investigate jaundice, nausea, abdominal pain, or fatigue and to monitor liver disease, alcohol use, or medication side effects affecting liver function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Liver Function Panel Test, LFT

The Liver Function Panel, also known as a Hepatic Function Panel, measures proteins, enzymes, and bilirubin to assess liver health and function. It helps detect liver disease, monitor liver conditions, and evaluate the effects of medications or other factors on liver performance.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Hepatic Function Panel Test, HFP Test

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 IgG Type-Specific Antibody HerpeSelect® Test detects IgG antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2, distinguishing between the two types. A positive result indicates past exposure, as IgG develops weeks after infection and remains long-term. Doctors use this test to confirm herpes diagnosis, guide treatment, or support sexual health decisions. Results provide vital insight into HSV status, infection history, and long-term immune response.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Herpes 1 and 2 Test, Herpes IgG Test

Most Popular

The Insulin Test measures insulin levels in blood to assess how the body regulates glucose and metabolism. It helps diagnose insulin resistance, hypoglycemia, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Doctors also use it to evaluate pancreatic function and monitor treatment effectiveness. Frequently ordered with glucose testing, the insulin test provides critical insight into endocrine health, blood sugar control, and risk for diabetes-related complications.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Fasting Insulin Blood Test

The Lupus Anticoagulant Evaluation with Reflex measures PTT-LA and dRVVT to detect lupus anticoagulant antibodies, which increase risk of abnormal clotting. Reflex tests such as Hexagonal Phase Confirmation, Thrombin Clotting Time, and dRVVT mixing are performed if results are prolonged. Doctors use this panel to evaluate unexplained clotting, recurrent miscarriage, or autoimmune disease, aiding in diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: LA Test, LAC Test, Lupus Anticoagulant Panel Test, Lupus Inhibitor Test, LA Sensitive PTT Test, PTT-LA Test,

The Lyme Disease Antibody Test with Reflex to Blot IgG IgM screens for antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. If results are positive or equivocal, a Western blot IgG/IgM is reflexively performed for confirmation. Doctors order this test for patients with tick exposure, rash, joint pain, or neurological symptoms. Results help confirm infection, guide treatment decisions, and support early detection to prevent complications.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Borrelia burgdorferi Test, Lyme Disease Antibodies IgG IgM Immunoblot Test, Lyme Disease Ab Test

The Lyme Disease IgG IgM Antibodies Immunoblot Test detects antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria causing Lyme disease. IgM indicates recent infection, while IgG suggests past or ongoing infection. Doctors order this test to confirm exposure after ELISA screening or when symptoms such as rash, fatigue, joint pain, or neurological issues appear. Results provide critical insight for diagnosing and managing Lyme disease with greater accuracy.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Borrelia burgdorferi Test, Lyme Disease Antibodies Test

The Lyme Disease IgG Antibody Immunoblot Test confirms exposure to Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. It detects IgG antibodies, which usually appear weeks after infection and remain present for months to years. Doctors use this test to confirm a positive screening result, evaluate late-stage Lyme symptoms, and support diagnosis in patients with joint pain, fatigue, or neurological complications from suspected Lyme disease.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Mercury 24 Hour Urine Test measures total mercury eliminated through urine to assess heavy metal exposure. Mercury can accumulate from environmental, dietary, or occupational sources and may affect neurological, renal, and immune function. A 24-hour urine collection improves accuracy by capturing daily excretion, helping evaluate mercury burden, guide clinical assessment, and support monitoring in at-risk populations.

Urine
Urine Collection

The Mercury Blood Test measures mercury levels to detect exposure from contaminated food, environment, or occupation. Elevated levels may damage the nervous system, kidneys, or cardiovascular health. Doctors order this test for patients with memory problems, tremors, or unexplained fatigue. Results help confirm mercury poisoning, guide detoxification or treatment, and monitor ongoing exposure to protect long-term neurological and metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Hg Test, Hg Blood Test

The Mercury Micronutrient Blood Test measures mercury levels in the blood to assess exposure and potential toxicity. Mercury, found in contaminated seafood, dental materials, or industrial sources, can harm the nervous system, kidneys, and immune health. This test helps detect harmful accumulation, guide treatment, and monitor health risks related to mercury exposure.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Hg Test, Hg Blood Test, Mercury Blood Test

The Mercury Random Urine Test measures mercury levels excreted in urine to assess recent exposure and potential toxicity. Mercury, a heavy metal found in industrial sources, contaminated seafood, and dental materials, can affect the nervous system, kidneys, and overall health. This test provides valuable insight into toxic exposure risk, supports early detection of heavy metal burden, and helps guide monitoring in exposed individuals.

Urine
Urine Collection

The Methylmalonic Acid (MMA) Blood Test measures MMA levels in the bloodstream to help detect vitamin B12 deficiency, often before anemia or neurological symptoms appear. Elevated results may indicate poor B12 absorption, pernicious anemia, or metabolic disorders. Doctors order this test when patients present with fatigue, neuropathy, or unexplained anemia. Results provide early insight into nutritional status, metabolic health, and treatment needs.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: MMA Test

The Myelin Associated Glycoprotein (MAG) SGPG IgM Antibody Test detects antibodies against MAG and sulfated glucuronyl paragloboside (SGPG), markers linked to demyelinating neuropathies. Elevated IgM antibodies may indicate autoimmune neurological disorders, including peripheral neuropathy or chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. This test supports diagnosis, monitoring, and evaluation of immune-mediated nerve damage.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: MAG SGPG Antibody Test

The Protein Total Serum Test evaluates total protein concentration, reflecting both albumin and globulin, which play key roles in immune response, liver function, and nutrient transport. Abnormal findings may signal malnutrition, kidney or liver disease, or chronic inflammatory conditions. This test aids in assessing protein metabolism, systemic health, and overall physiological balance.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Test measures RF antibodies in blood to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. High RF levels may indicate rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, or other connective tissue diseases, though they can also appear in some infections. Doctors order this test to investigate joint pain, stiffness, or swelling. Results provide important insight into autoimmune activity, joint health, and inflammatory disease management.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: RF Test, Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor Test

The Rheumatoid Factor IgA Antibody Test measures IgA-class rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody linked to rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. Elevated levels may indicate joint inflammation, Sjögren’s syndrome, or chronic infections. Doctors use this blood test alongside other markers to confirm diagnosis, assess disease activity, and guide treatment decisions for patients with suspected autoimmune or inflammatory disorders.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: RF IgA Test, Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor IgA Antibody Test

The Rheumatoid Factor IgG Antibody Test measures IgG-class rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody often linked to rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Elevated levels may indicate joint inflammation, Sjögren’s syndrome, or chronic infection. Doctors use this test with other markers to confirm diagnosis, assess autoimmune activity, and guide treatment for patients with persistent joint pain, swelling, or suspected inflammatory disorders.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: RF IgG Test, Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor IgG Antibody Test

The RPR (Monitor) with Reflex to Titer Test screens for syphilis by detecting antibodies to Treponema pallidum. If positive, a reflex titer determines antibody concentration to assess disease activity and treatment response. Doctors order this test to diagnose syphilis, monitor therapy, or check reinfection. Results provide essential information for managing active infection, confirming treatment success, and guiding follow-up care.

Also Known As: Syphilis RPR Test, Rapid Plasma Reagin Test

The Sensory-Motor Neuropathy Antibody Panel (Ganglioside) detects IgG and IgM autoantibodies against gangliosides GM1, Asialo-GM1, GD1a, GD1b, and GQ1b via immunoassay. High GM1 titers are characteristic of multifocal motor neuropathy; other ganglioside antibodies appear in sensorimotor neuropathies. The test uses serum (overnight fasting preferred) and aids evaluation of immune-mediated neuropathy, motor dysfunction, lower motor neuron disease.

Also Known As: Ganglioside Antibodies Panel

Most Popular

The T3 Reverse (rT3) Test measures reverse triiodothyronine, an inactive thyroid hormone, to assess thyroid and metabolic function. High rT3 may occur in hypothyroidism, chronic illness, stress, or during certain treatments, while low levels may reflect hormone imbalance. Doctors use this test along with TSH, Free T4, and Free T3 to evaluate fatigue, weight changes, or slow metabolism. The rT3 Test provides insight into thyroid regulation, energy balance, and endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Reverse T3 Test, RT3 Test, T3R Test

Most Popular

The T3 Total Test measures total triiodothyronine (T3), a combination of both bound and unbound (free) T3, to assess thyroid function. Abnormal levels may indicate hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, goiter, or pituitary disorders. Doctors use this test to evaluate symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, anxiety, or irregular heartbeat and to monitor thyroid treatment. The T3 Total Test provides essential insight into metabolism, energy regulation, and overall endocrine health.

Also Known As: Total T3 Test, Total Triiodothyronine Test, T3 Test, Bound and Unbound T3

Most Popular

The T3 Free Test measures free triiodothyronine (T3), the active thyroid hormone not bound to proteins, to assess thyroid function. It helps diagnose hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, goiter, and pituitary disorders. Doctors order this test to evaluate symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, anxiety, or irregular heartbeat and to monitor thyroid replacement or antithyroid therapy. The Free T3 Test provides key insight into metabolism, energy regulation, and overall endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Free T3 Test, Free Triiodothyronine Test, FT3 Test, T3F Test, Unbound T3 Test

Most Popular

The T4 Total Test measures total thyroxine (T4) in blood, a combination of both bound and unbound (free) T4, to assess thyroid function. Abnormal levels may indicate hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, or pituitary disorders. Doctors use this test to evaluate symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, or irregular heart rate and to monitor thyroid replacement or antithyroid therapy. The T4 Total Test provides key insight into metabolic, hormonal, and endocrine health.

Also Known As: Total T4 Test, Total Thyroxine Test, T4 Test, Bound and Unbound T4 Test

Most Popular

The T4 Free Test measures the level of free thyroxine (T4) in blood, the active thyroid hormone not bound to proteins. It helps diagnose thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and goiter, as well as pituitary conditions affecting hormone regulation. Doctors use this test to evaluate symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, or irregular heartbeat and to monitor thyroid replacement or antithyroid therapy, providing insight into metabolic and endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Free T4 Test, Free Thyroxine Test, FT4 Test, T4F Test, Unbound T4 Test

More than 20 million people in the United States struggle with neuropathy. These individuals experience pain and weakness that come from a defect in the nervous system.

Unfortunately, there's no cure for neuropathy. However, some available treatments work better for patients who identify their condition early on.

Neuropathy lab tests are the best way to determine whether or not you have neuropathy or are currently developing it.

Keep reading to learn more about neuropathy and the neuropathy tests you need for a diagnosis.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition of the nervous system that's associated with nerve damage. The condition can stand alone or develop as a result of another condition.

A couple of the common conditions that may cause neuropathy are diabetes and Guillain-Barre syndrome. Some patients may even develop neuropathy as a side effect of treatments like chemotherapy.

Neuropathy is also called peripheral neuropathy. Although peripheral neuropathy is localized to the legs and arms, neuropathy can occur anywhere in the body.

Neuropathy does not have a singular cause or symptom. It's a set of symptoms that occurs because of a few different processes happening in the body. 

Unfortunately, neuropathy is not curable. However, there are steps that you can take to prevent the condition before you develop it, as well as steps that you can take to prevent the condition from worsening after you develop it.

Risk Factors for Neuropathy

The risk factors for neuropathy are linked to previous medical history and current lifestyle choices. Here are the common risk factors associated with neuropathy:

  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Vitamin B deficiency
  • Copper deficiency
  • Nutrient excess
  • Exposure to toxins

If you have any of these risk factors, it's important to let your health provider know so that they can better care for you. While having these conditions isn't guaranteed to lead to neuropathy, they are strongly correlated with them. 

Causes of Neuropathy

The most common cause of neuropathy is diabetes. Because of the changes in the blood that happen with the condition, it can lead to numbness and tingling in the legs and arms.

Cancer patients can experience chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. The chemo treatment kills fast-growing cells in the body. Unfortunately, it can go after some of your healthy cells as well.

Getting these treatments over time can cause damage to the nervous system as nerve cells die.

Autoimmune diseases can also cause neuropathy. People with these conditions have an immune system that is attacking healthy cells. Sometimes, this includes healthy nerve cells.

Infectious diseases can lead to neuropathy as well. Like with the HIV/AIDS virus, these infectious agents can cause damage to the nervous system over time.

Those people with HIV or AIDS can develop the condition from the virus, while others develop it from the medications that providers use to contain the virus.

Nutrition problems, including deficiencies, malnutrition, excess, and alcoholism, can cause neuropathy as well. The imbalance within the body causes problems with the nerve cells, eventually leading to neuropathy.

Repetitive stress, inflammation, and irritation can also cause nerve problems. If you've had an injury in the past, you could be at risk of developing neuropathy.

Lastly, we should point out idiopathic neuropathy and genetic neuropathy. Idiopathic neuropathy has no known cause, while genetic neuropathy is passed down through families.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Neuropathy?

The signs and symptoms that a patient gets from neuropathy will depend on how advanced it is and what kind of neuropathy they have. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms for patients with neuropathy:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Burning
  • Sensitivity to touch
  • Pain
  • Muscle weakness

Usually, these signs and symptoms occur in the arms and/or legs. However, the location of these signs and symptoms depends on the location of your neuropathy.

If the condition has a chance to develop too far, you could develop paralysis. It's important to catch the condition early.

How Is Neuropathy Diagnosed?

There are several ways that a healthcare provider can diagnose neuropathy. 

First, they could use electrodiagnostic testing. This includes a series of tests that look at the nerve function and nerve sensitivity in different areas of your body.

They can also use a needle examination, which requires using a needle to get audio and visual information about your muscle functioning.

Your healthcare provider may choose to get a skin biopsy. By looking at the sample under a microscope, they can determine whether your neuropathy is associated with your nerve fibers.

Quantitive sensory testing is also an option. This can help healthcare providers determine how much damage there is to your existing nerves.

Lastly, your healthcare provider may want to run a couple of neuropathy blood tests to see if you have signs of inflammation and damage in your blood.

The Lab Tests to Screen, Diagnose, and Monitor Neuropathy

Since neuropathy is a nerve condition, there aren't many regular neuropathy lab tests. However, there are a few tests that can help your provider determine the kind of neuropathy that you have. These include the following:

By getting these kinds of tests, you can take the next steps when it comes to controlling your neuropathy. By knowing how it developed, you and your healthcare provider can make better decisions about your future health. This means that you may be able to slow down the development of the condition or even help with symptoms.

Get Your Neuropathy Lab Tests at Ulta Lab Tests

If you think that you may have neuropathy, you should get neuropathy lab tests sooner rather than later. If you get a diagnosis now, you can take the necessary steps to get it under control before you experience signs like paralysis.

Luckily, you can get neuropathy lab tests at Ulta Lab Tests. We can help you figure out whether or not you're at risk for the condition. If you are, you should have a conversation with your healthcare provider about controlling the disease.

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate and reliable tests so that you can make informed decisions about your health. Benefits of using Ulta Lab Tests include:

  • 2100 patient service centers across the nation
  • Secure and confidential results delivered to you in 24 to 48 hours for most tests
  • No insurance required
  • No doctor’s referral is required
  • A 100% satisfaction guarantee

Take control of your health today with neuropathy lab tests from Ulta Lab Tests.