What are the causes of peripheral neuropathy&high cholesterol?

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy describes damage in the communications network that connects the brain and spinal cord with the rest of the body. It often leads to muscle weakness, painful cramps, uncontrolled twitching, muscle loss, bone degeneration and changes in the skin, hair and nails.

Acquired Peripheral Neuropathy

Possible causes of acquired peripheral neuropathy include physical trauma to a nerve (due to an accident or a fall), tumors, toxins, nutritional deficiencies, alcoholism, infections or autoimmune disorders affecting the nervous system, and vascular and metabolic diseases. One of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy is uncontrolled diabetes.

Inherited Peripheral Neuropathy

Certain gene defects can cause peripheral neuropathies of varying severity. The most common inherited neuropathies are a group of disorders known as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. The latter results from mutations in genes that direct the synthesis of nerve cells or their enveloping sheath.

High Blood Cholesterol

High blood cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) is a metabolic disorder that results from abnormalities in the levels of lipoproteins (the particles that normally transport cholesterol). It can contribute to many conditions, especially heart disease.

Acquired Hypercholesterolemia

High blood cholesterol usually results from a combination of risk factors including age (over age 45 for men and age 55 for women), certain medications (diuretics, corticosteroids), cigarette smoking, certain diseases (diabetes, hypothyroidism), gender (post-menopausal women are at higher risk), high blood pressure, cholesterol-rich diet and obesity.

Inherited Hypercholesterolemia

Few forms of inherited hypercholesterolemia exist. The most common, familial hypercholesterolemia, results from gene defects that prevent a protein called a low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) from properly removing cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Source:

National Institute of Neurological Disorders: Peripheral Neuropathy

National Library of Medicine: Hypercholesterolemia

More Information:

Mayo Clinic: Peripheral Neuropathy

Mayo Clinic: High Blood Cholesterol