Peripheral neuropathy (AL amyloidosis) Infosheet

This Infosheet explains what peripheral neuropathy is and what causes it in AL amyloidosis patients. It also explains how it is treated and some tips for self-management.

This Infosheet covers key questions and topics about peripheral neuropathy including:

• What is peripheral neuropathy?
• What nerves are affected in peripheral neuropathy?
• What are the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?
• Testing for peripheral neuropathy
• What causes peripheral neuropathy in AL amyloidosis?
• What are the treatments for peripheral neuropathy?
• Tips for self-management

Key points you can read about in this Infosheet include:

• Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves that send information such as pain and touch to the brain
• Symptoms include pain, tingling, numbness, or lack of co-ordination
• Possible causes include amyloid deposits damaging the nerves, certain drug treatments (including bortezomib and thalidomide), and other factors such as damage due to kidney problems
• It is important to report symptoms as soon as possible, as peripheral neuropathy is easier to treat early
• Management includes pain-relieving medicines and topical creams
• Other treatments such as complementary therapies may help with symptoms
• If you have peripheral neuropathy caused by your AL amyloidosis treatment, your healthcare team may in some cases consider reducing the dose, changing the way the treatment is given or switching to a different treatment
• There are many things you can do to make living with peripheral neuropathy easier, such as keeping your feet warm, taking regular gentle exercise and taking precautions around the house to minimise the risk of falls

AL Amyloidosis Peripheral Neuropathy Infosheet

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