What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy describes a variety of disorders of the peripheral nervous system—which includes the face, arms, legs, torso, feet, hands, and some nerves in the skull. People who have peripheral neuropathy commonly experience pain, numbness, tingling, weakness and other muscle or nerve-related symptoms. Symptoms of neuropathy often begin slowly and in one specific area, and eventually spread and intensify. Neuropathy frequently affects people with autoimmune diseases. Other factors that may increase the risk of neuropathy include:
- Alcohol abuse
- Vitamin deficiency
- Certain medical conditions, such as cancers, kidney and liver diseases, diabetes and hypothyroidism
- Repetitive stress from work or hobbies
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Some bacterial or viral infections
What is the Connection between Peripheral Neuropathy and Celiac Disease?
- Neuropathy is most common among patients with autoimmune disorders, and celiac disease is a serious, genetic autoimmune condition.
- Some research has found that 5% of patients with peripheral neuropathy have celiac disease.
Where Can I Learn More?
How Do People with Celiac Disease Experience Peripheral Neuropathy?
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I’ve had symptoms of celiac disease since birth. I’m Black and wasn’t tested until 40. Peripheral neuropathy played a significant role. My legs would stop working mid-stride or just one while standing. My right hand began tingling last year. Now my left. I drop things. Not fun at all.
Yolanda Barlow-Chan
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One day I couldn’t feel my hands and feet, and I could barely feel the ground when I walked around. Doctors kept telling me it was all stress-related, until my gynecologist tested me for and eventually diagnosed me with celiac disease.
Theresa
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One morning I woke up and couldn’t feel my legs. My mom carried me into the car and drove me to the hospital, where I eventually left with no answers. I didn’t experience any GI issues in my journey to getting diagnosed with celiac disease.
Gabrielle
How Do You Experience Peripheral Neuropathy?
At Beyond Celiac, we’re collecting real stories from people living with celiac disease to highlight how symptoms affect everyday life.
Your experience with peripheral neuropathy can help others feel seen, understood, and empowered. We only share first names or initials to protect your privacy. These stories raise awareness and help others recognize how celiac disease shows up in different ways.
Use the form below to share your experiences with peripheral neuropathy.