Overview
Diagnosing peripheral neuropathy usually involves a combination of methods. These include:
- Symptoms and medical history. Your healthcare provider will likely ask questions about your medical history and any recent symptoms or changes you’ve noticed. They may also ask about other medical conditions and factors, such as type 2 diabetes, and your nutrition, habits and lifestyle.
- Physical and neurological exams. These involve a healthcare provider looking for physical signs of peripheral neuropathy, including changes in your ability to feel sensations, muscle weakness, changes in your reflexes or trouble with walking and balance.
- Lab, diagnostic and imaging tests. A wide range of tests can help with diagnosing peripheral neuropathy.
What tests will be done to diagnose peripheral neuropathy?
The most common types of tests for peripheral neuropathy (either to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions) include:
- Blood tests (these can detect many problems, ranging from immune system problems to toxins and poisons, especially metals like mercury or lead).
- Electromyogram.
- Nerve ultrasound.
- Nerve biopsy.
- Genetic testing.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
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