If you have ever noticed tingling in your fingers, numbness in your feet, or a strange burning sensation that seems to come and go, you are not alone. Peripheral neuropathy — damage or dysfunction of the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord — is one of the most common but least talked-about health issues affecting people over 50. In Ireland, where an ageing population is growing rapidly, understanding nerve health has never been more important.
The good news is that many forms of peripheral neuropathy can be managed effectively, and early action makes a real difference. This guide explains what peripheral neuropathy is, what causes it, and what practical steps you can take to protect your nerve health in Ireland.
TL;DR
- Peripheral neuropathy causes numbness, tingling, burning, or pain — most commonly in the feet and hands — and becomes more common after 50.
- Type 2 diabetes is the leading cause in Ireland; TILDA research shows nearly one in ten older adults has diabetes, many undiagnosed.
- Other causes include vitamin B12 deficiency, alcohol use, medications, and autoimmune conditions.
- Early GP assessment is essential — nerve conduction studies and blood tests can identify the cause and guide treatment.
- Supports in Ireland include HSE podiatry, physiotherapy, chronic disease management through your GP, and community-based programmes.
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Your peripheral nerves are the vast network of nerves that run from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body — your hands, feet, arms, legs, and internal organs. When these nerves are damaged, they can send faulty signals: tingling when nothing is touching you, pain without an obvious cause, or numbness that means you cannot feel temperature or pressure properly.
There are three main types of peripheral nerves, and neuropathy can affect any of them:
- Sensory nerves — responsible for feeling touch, temperature, and pain. Damage here causes numbness, tingling, or burning.
- Motor nerves — control muscle movement. Damage can lead to weakness, cramping, or difficulty with fine tasks like buttoning a shirt.
- Autonomic nerves — regulate unconscious functions like blood pressure, digestion, and bladder control. Damage can cause dizziness on standing, digestive problems, or excessive sweating.
Most commonly, peripheral neuropathy starts in the longest nerves first — which is why symptoms typically begin in the feet and work upward, sometimes described as a “stocking-and-glove” pattern.
Why Does It Become More Common After 50?
Several factors converge as we age. Nerves naturally become less efficient over time, blood flow to smaller nerve fibres can reduce, and the cumulative effects of lifestyle and medical conditions begin to show. Research from the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) highlights that conditions closely linked to neuropathy — including diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and cardiovascular disease — all become more prevalent in the over-50s.
Common Causes in Ireland
1. Type 2 Diabetes
Diabetic neuropathy is the single most common cause of peripheral neuropathy worldwide, and Ireland is no exception. TILDA data shows that approximately 9–10% of adults over 50 in Ireland have diabetes, with a significant proportion undiagnosed. Persistently high blood sugar damages small blood vessels that supply nerves, particularly in the feet. This is why the HSE’s Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Programme includes regular foot checks for people with diabetes — catching nerve damage early is critical.
2. Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve health, and deficiency becomes more common with age as the stomach produces less intrinsic factor (needed to absorb B12). People taking long-term proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid reflux, or metformin for diabetes, are at particular risk. A simple blood test from your GP can check your levels.
3. Alcohol Use
Long-term alcohol consumption can directly damage nerves and deplete essential B vitamins. If you are concerned about alcohol and nerve health, your GP can offer confidential advice, and the HSE provides free supports through local addiction services.
4. Medications
Some commonly prescribed medications can cause neuropathy as a side effect, including certain chemotherapy drugs, some antibiotics (like metronidazole), and statins in rare cases. If you notice new tingling or numbness after starting a medication, mention it to your GP or pharmacist — do not simply stop taking the medication yourself.
5. Other Causes
Less common causes include autoimmune conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis or coeliac disease), thyroid disorders, kidney disease, and physical nerve compression (like carpal tunnel syndrome). In some cases, no cause is found — this is called idiopathic neuropathy and is more common in the over-60s.
When to See Your GP
Do not dismiss persistent tingling, numbness, or pain as “just getting older.” See your GP if you experience:
- Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet that does not go away
- A burning or stabbing pain, particularly at night
- Difficulty feeling hot or cold in your extremities
- Unexplained muscle weakness or clumsiness
- Frequent stumbling, balance problems, or dropping things
- Wounds on your feet that are slow to heal or that you did not notice
Your GP can perform initial assessments including a monofilament test (a simple touch test on the feet), blood tests for diabetes, B12, thyroid function, and kidney function, and refer you for nerve conduction studies if needed. Under the CDM Programme, those with diabetes are entitled to structured GP visits that include nerve health checks at no additional charge for medical card and GP visit card holders.
Managing Peripheral Neuropathy
While some nerve damage cannot be fully reversed, a great deal can be done to slow progression, manage symptoms, and maintain quality of life.
Treat the Underlying Cause
If diabetes is the cause, tighter blood sugar control can significantly slow nerve damage. If B12 deficiency is responsible, supplementation (often by injection initially) can halt and sometimes reverse symptoms. Addressing alcohol intake or adjusting medications can also make a meaningful difference.
Pain Management
Neuropathic pain responds differently to standard painkillers. Your GP may prescribe specific medications such as amitriptyline, pregabalin, or duloxetine, which target nerve pain pathways. These are available on the medical card and the Drugs Payment Scheme, capping monthly costs for those without a medical card.
Foot Care
Foot care is especially important if you have reduced sensation. The HSE provides podiatry services for people with diabetes, and your GP or public health nurse can refer you. Daily foot checks, well-fitting shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot can prevent injuries you might not feel.
Exercise and Physiotherapy
Regular, gentle exercise improves blood flow to nerves and can reduce neuropathic pain. Walking, swimming, and chair-based exercises are excellent options. HSE community physiotherapy services can design a programme tailored to your abilities. Ask your GP for a referral.
Occupational Therapy
If neuropathy affects your hands, an occupational therapist can suggest adaptive tools and techniques for daily tasks like cooking, dressing, or using a phone. HSE OT services are available through GP referral.
Supports Available in Ireland
- HSE Chronic Disease Management Programme — structured care for diabetes, including regular nerve checks, available through participating GPs.
- HSE Podiatry Services — foot assessments and care for those with diabetes or at-risk feet.
- Community Physiotherapy — exercise programmes and mobility support, available by GP referral.
- Diabetes Ireland — provides education, local support groups, and a helpline (1800 346 346) for people managing diabetes and its complications.
- Drugs Payment Scheme — caps prescription costs at €80 per month per family, covering neuropathic pain medications.
- Medical Card and GP Visit Card — everyone over 70 is entitled to a GP visit card; those who qualify for a medical card receive prescriptions at reduced or no cost.
- Living Well Programme — a free HSE self-management programme for people living with long-term health conditions, available nationwide.
Protecting Your Nerve Health
Prevention and early action are your best allies. Practical steps include:
- Monitor blood sugar levels if you have diabetes or are at risk — speak to your GP about the CDM Programme.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in B vitamins (wholegrains, eggs, dairy, leafy greens, fortified cereals).
- Stay physically active — even a daily 20-minute walk supports nerve health.
- Review your medications regularly with your GP or pharmacist, particularly if you take PPIs or metformin long-term.
- Limit alcohol intake — HSE guidelines recommend no more than 11 standard drinks per week for women and 17 for men.
- Do not smoke — smoking damages blood vessels that supply nerves.
- Check your feet daily if you have diabetes or reduced sensation.
Peripheral neuropathy can feel unsettling, but understanding what is happening and knowing where to find support can make an enormous difference. If you are experiencing persistent numbness, tingling, or nerve pain, your GP is the best place to start. Early assessment means earlier treatment — and better outcomes.
At Críonna Health, we believe that informed, practical guidance is the foundation of healthy ageing. Nobody should have to navigate nerve health concerns alone, and Ireland has genuine supports in place to help.
📷 Photo by Ladyfern Photos on Unsplash
