Neuropathic pain is often described as a shooting or burning pain. It can go away on its own but is often chronic. Sometimes it is unrelenting and severe, and sometimes it comes and goes. It often is the result of nerve damage or a malfunctioning nervous system. The impact of nerve damage is a change in nerve function both at the site of the injury and areas around it.
One example of neuropathic pain is called phantom limb syndrome. This rare condition occurs when an arm or a leg has been removed because of illness or injury, but the brain still gets pain messages from the nerves that originally carried impulses from the missing limb. These nerves now misfire and cause pain.
Neuropathic pain symptoms may include: shooting and burning pain, tingling and numbness
To diagnose neuropathic pain, a doctor will conduct an interview and physical exam.
He may ask questions about how you would describe your pain, when the pain occurs, or whether anything specific triggers the pain.
The doctor will also ask about your risk factors for neuropathic pain and may also request both blood and nerve tests.