This can be regarded as a very popular question among a lot of people who are suffering from this particular syndrome. Most of us might already have a clear idea regarding this health condition. But at the same time, there might be a lot of people out there who are hearing about this syndrome for the very first time. So for those who don't know, the grierson-gopalan syndrome is also known as the burning feet syndrome and a lot of people experience it on a regular basis. Here, we will be providing a detailed overview of this syndrome. Thereafter, we will be looking at the causes of this condition. Lastly, we will be looking at the diagnosis of this syndrome. Thus, this discussion can be regarded as very informative for all those who are suffering from this particular syndrome. It will give them a clear idea regarding this syndrome, its causes, as well as, the associated diagnosis. So, without further delay, let's get into our discussion of this important topic regarding the burning feet syndrome.
The grierson-gopalan syndrome- An overview
In this section, we will be providing a detailed overview of this syndrome. Now-a-days, this syndrome is quite common and a lot of people experience it on a regular basis. The burning feet syndrome can be regarded as a set of symptoms in which the feet often become uncomfortably hot as well as painful. In addition to that, this complex burning sensation might become more intense at night. The patients might observe some relief during the day time. The symptoms might range from mild to severe and it can also vary from. person to person. The heat and pain that is observed in this syndrome can be limited to the soles of the feet. But sometimes, it might also affect the tops of the feet, the ankles, and even the lower legs. Thus, different people might feel different symptoms. Hence, a proper discussion regarding these symptoms can be considered as very necessary. So, let's see what these symptoms are.
- The first and foremost symptom that is observed by most of the patients is a sensation of heat or burning. As we have already mentioned, this sensation often worsens at night.
- The patients might experience some numbness in the feet or legs. This symptom is quite common and almost all patients experience it.
- They might experience sharp and stabbing pain. Sometimes, they might also experience a feeling of heaviness in their feet. On the other hand, some patients might experience a dull ache in the feet.
- There might also be some skin redness and excess warmth. This might be accompanied by a prickling or tingling sensation or a feeling of “pins and needles”.
Causes of this syndrome
In the previous section, we have provided a detailed overview of grierson-gopalan syndrome. Now, here we will be looking at the causes of this syndrome. According to the doctors, the symptoms of burning feet syndrome can result from many different conditions or diseases. Some of them are discussed in detail below.
- Nerve damage or entrapment
As we all know, there are a number of possible causes of nerve damage. This damage might occur due to various illnesses, back injuries or slow breakdown of the spine. It might also occur due to surgery, use of chemotherapy drugs or other medications, or exposure to toxins. Peripheral neuropathy can be regarded as one of the most common causes of burning feet syndrome and it occurs when the peripheral sensory nerves which connect the spinal cord to the extremities are damaged. The Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, Morton’s neuroma, Complex regional pain syndrome, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disorder might also lead to this burning feet syndrome.
- Endocrine or metabolic disorders
These disorders can also be regarded as one of the main causes of this syndrome. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can affect the peripheral nerves of the body, especially the sensory nerves of our feet and legs. High glucose levels might lead to damaged peripheral nerves. It can also affect the transmission of signals from these nerves and can weaken blood vessel walls. The patients should keep in mind that an underactive thyroid gland might also lead to a burning sensation in the feet. This can also lead to weight gain, dry skin, and fatigue.
- Infections
Sometimes infections like Athlete’s Foot might also lead to the burning feet sensation. This can be regarded as a fungal infection that is caused by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes which grow in moist, warm areas of our skin.
Diagnosis of this syndrome
In the previous section, we have looked at the causes of this grierson-gopalan syndrome. Now, here we will be looking at the diagnosis of this syndrome. As per reports, there are no tests to objectively measure the intensity of foot pain or burning. Hence, the doctors will try to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms. Most of the times, the doctor will ask us about our medical history. These include any physical symptoms that we have and medications that we are taking. Thereafter, the medical practitioner will test our reflexes and examine our feet for signs of infection, injury, or other problems. After that, he or she may measure our blood glucose level or screen for nutritional deficiencies or endocrine disorders. Most of the time, a complete blood count has to be performed. Other lab works that might be required include serum and urine electrolytes. The doctors might also order electrodiagnostic tests in the case of suspected nerve damage. These include tests like Electromyography and nerve conduction velocity test.
Conclusion
Thus, from our discussion of the topic, it can be concluded that the grierson-gopalan syndrome or burning feet syndrome is indeed very common and a lot of people experience it. Here, we have provided a detailed overview of this syndrome. Thereafter, we have looked at the causes of this syndrome. Lastly, we have discussed the diagnosis of this syndrome. Thus, this discussion can be regarded as extremely beneficial for all those who are suffering from this condition.
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