Small fiber neuropathy - Neuropathy Message Board

Ktron · 10-06-2009, 07:42 AM

I have been recently diagnosed with SFN. My neuro and family care dr. have run a full series of x-rays, blood work and nerve conduction studies.They haven't found anything that could be the underlying cause of this. Since seeing my neuro I have had other issues arise. I have developed some bladder problems (incontinence) not continually but more than I would ever admit to! I have also developed a "catch" like in my lower back. Sometimes this seems to radiate down my leg sometimes not. I don't know what symptoms go along with sfn and what may just be an aging issue. I look most of the other posts that I have read, have good days and bad. I just can't tell what the triggers are. Can others give me there symptoms and what I might be able to expect? Like the ache in my left thumb? Is this part of it? Thanks in advance for your help.

daisymaegrl · 10-06-2009, 10:48 PM

Welcome Ktron to the neuropathy board- there are some pretty cool people here who all try to navigate the mine field that is SFN.
My symptoms are a constant burning, buzzing sensations in my feet that have slowly progressed up my thighs. I have electrical shooting pains that come out of nowhere and take my breath away. I have no temperature sensation in my feet and can't tell if the bath water is cold or hot. My feet sometimes feel so cold but burning hot at the same time. Really weird I know! This goes on 24/7, but for me it is extremely worse at night when I lie down and take the weight off my feet.
I have heard that bladder problems can be the SFN affecting the internal organs. We all try different meds but unfortunately they have very limited ability to help.
Things change day by day for us. Nutrition is important and proper rest is imperative. I hope you will check back with us and let us know how you get on!
Best wishes, Daisy

dianne04 · 10-07-2009, 06:04 AM

Welcome Ktron

I too have SFN, going on a year now. Same as you I went through all the tests..all were negative as the cause. It's idiopathic in about 40% of cases. It effects everyone sort of differently yet the same. It can effect your autonomic nervous system too...which would explain the bladder troubles. Mine is body wide...sort of like I have a chemical burn on my skin...it waxes and wanes constantly. Some of the sharp jabbing pains have calmed down (for now) and I used to have a sore right thumb in the begining (strange). Talk with you doctor about your bladder issues. The right combo of meds should help you to live your life. Take it from someone who has tried to avoid the med route for a year..it's easier to function and be a bit more comfortable with them. Like Daisy said, eat well and rest when needed. You may find decreased energy levels. Best of Luck and lest us know if we can help! Dianne

Ktron · 10-07-2009, 04:34 PM

Thank you both so much for your responses. I contacted my Dr yesterday after doing so much reading and requested that blood work for Celiac disease be done. I went for that blood work this morning and will have the results in about a week. I know that this will sound a little foolish but I haven't started taking any drugs at this point. I try to avoid tylenol so this is a big step for me. I know that once it gets bad enough and I start taking it there will be no turning back. Wish I could determine why the last two days have been so bad. I use to look forward to relaxing at night but now...not so much! Thank you again and I will continue to check this board.