Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Neuropathy (CIDP) Signs and Symptoms
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Neuropathy (CIPD) is an autoimmune disorder involving the peripheral nervous system. The disorder causes damage to the myelin sheath surrounding the peripheral nerves, primarily the nerves in the fingers, toes, the arms and the legs. It is closely related to Guillain-Barre syndrome, and is considered its chronic counterpart. We have put together a list of common signs and symptoms of Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Neuropathy below.
Also, we have information on diagnosis, supportive natural therapies, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.
The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Neuropathy include:
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers and toes
- Weakness of the arms and legs
- Loss of deep tendon reflexes
- Muscle atrophy
- Muscle twitching
- Difficulty walking
- Fatigue
- Back pain or neck pain radiating down the extremities
- Dizziness
- Problem with bowel and bladder functions
The course of chronic inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy varies from individual to individual. Some people have only one bout with a complete recovery, while others have several recurring bouts over the course of their lifetime. If caught and treated early, the prognosis for many individuals is very good.
Diagnosis of Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Neuropathy
Nerve conduction studies will show demyelination in chronic inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy. Other tests include an EMG, a spinal tap, blood work to exclude other autoimmune diseases, and a biopsy when the results of the other tests are not completely definitive.
Books and Articles for People With Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Neuropathy
| The Official Patient’s Sourcebook on Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy: A Revised and Updated Directory for the Internet Age Icon Health Publications |
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy: An entry from Thomson Gale’s Gale Encyclopedia of Neurological Disorders Brian, PhD Hoyle |
| Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy Frederic P. Miller |
Living Well with Autoimmune Disease: What Your Doctor Doesn’t Tell You…That You Need to Know Mary J. Shomon |
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Neuropathy (CIDP) Resources
General Patient Resources
- GBS/CIPD Foundation International
Serving patients with GBS and CIPD with support, education and research.
http://www.gbs-cidp.org/aboutcidp.htm
- Center For Peripheral Neuropathy
Learn about peripheral neuropathy and how to find treatment.
http://peripheralneuropathycenter.uchicago.edu/learnaboutpn/typesofpn/inflammatory/cidp.shtml
- Experience Project
Anonymously connect with people who share your experiences– like those who say ‘I Have Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy’.
Read hundreds of true stories, share your own story anonymously, get feedback and comments, chat in the discussion forum, help others, meet new friends, and so much more– all free.
http://www.experienceproject.com/groups/Have-Chronic-Inflammatory-Demyelinating-Polyneuropathy/53823
- Brain Foundation
The latest Australian research, as well as support groups.
http://brainfoundation.org.au/a-z-of-disorders/21-chronic-inflammatory-demyelinating-polyneuropathy
Medical Resources
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Resources and information compiled by the National Institute of Health.
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/cidp/cidp.htm
- Web MD
Information and resources on CIPD
http://www.webmd.com/brain/chronic-inflammatory-demyelinating-polyneuropathy