Recently, (January, 1999), I was diagnosed with Peripheral Neuropathy. I had never heard of PN. I could not pronounce it. I could not spell it. But, I had it.

My symptoms included numbness in my feet; sometimes tingling; sometimes hot feet, like walking barefooted on a hot sandy beach. Once in a while my calves would get into the act, feeling numb, etc... Then, tired feet and calves would emerge. I felt like I had walked 15 miles slightly uphill.

This writing is taking place in November, 1999. The symptoms persist. I have not gotten better. If anything, the condition is worse. But, I feel better because my medication is working (more on this later).

I first began noticing numb toes a few years ago. Probably in 1996, I told my wife that the 2nd and 3rd toes on each foot felt numb. I thought no more about it, figuring encroaching old age (I was 61) might be the culprit.

Then, in late 1998, the numbness jumped from just toes to the entirety of both feet. At times, I could detect numbness in my fingers and even on my face, including the tip of my nose.

My wife and I assumed I was experiencing pinched nerves in my back. I have had a bad back ever since I was fifteen years old.

Off to the doctors I went; one at a time. My primary Physician referred me to a Neurologist, who ordered a series of tests. I had a CAT scan, MRI and an EMG in addition to more routine tests to see if I was alive. This Neurologist recommended back surgery as soon as possible even though he said my symptoms did not match his diagnosis. I went for a second opinion.

This next doctor was a Neurosurgeon. I wasn't sure what a "Neuro" was but I knew this doctor could remove it if I elected to go that route. I went through another series of tests, including "iodine in the spine." This is my affectionate term for another "more distinct" MRI.

These doctors could find nothing wrong with my back. So, I started over. I went to a brand new Neurologist; but one that my family had known in years past.

This doctor did his own nerve conduction test (EMG) and told me that I had Peripheral Neuropathy (PN). I told him that my first and only language was English. He explained about nerve damage due to numerous causes. Several more tests ruled out diabetes and other common causes for my PN. This left me diagnosed as having Idiopathic Peripheral Neuropathy. Idiopathic = Cause Unknown.

This doctor put me on Neurontin, a medication commonly used for epilepsy. I worked up to where I take 800mg four times per day or a daily total of 3200mg. Dosages vary from case to case so be sure to check with your doctor as to medication and dosage.

I located a great Neuropathy Support Group here in Houston. We meet every other month. We have speakers who are expert in areas of Neuropathy and/or related topics. I highly recommend that you find a local support group if at all possible

Also, I found a great book on PN written by John A. Senneff. The title of his book is Numb Toes and Aching Soles: Coping with Peripheral Neuropathy. I have learned a great deal about PN from this book, including Magnet Therapy and other alternative treatments.

I want to add that Spouse Support is vital. My wife, Mardell, has been by my side all the while. She attends the Support Group meetings with me. She helps in so many ways. She has even helped me edit this web site so my spelling won't be too off standard.

Here it is late November, 1999. A few months ago, my daughter stirred my interest in internet web sites and their design. She had experienced her own medical disorder and had set up a web site as a support tool. I decided to do likewise so here we are.

If you will send me your PN Story Line, I will give you a page similar to this page. Your story will be read by others with the same or similar disorders. Maybe, just maybe our Story Lines and our sharing will lend a comfort to someone who simply needs to "unload."

God Bless and may your PN just go away...

Winston Hamby
Submit Your PN Story Line


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