Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) presents a variety of symptoms, typically beginning with sensations of numbness, tingling, burning, and weakness, primarily felt in the feet initially, and then gradually spreading to other parts of the body.
Early signs may include foot drop, characterized by weakness in the ankles leading to stumbling, or numbness and tingling in the soles and toes that eventually extends elsewhere in the body.
CIDP can also affect other bodily functions, such as:
- Bladder dysfunction leading to incomplete emptying
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, or constipation
- Low blood pressure causing dizziness
- Erectile dysfunction
The severity and combination of symptoms vary among individuals. While some may experience only numbness and tingling, others may have weakness.
Common symptoms of CIDP include:
- Loss of strength and sensation in the limbs
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness and tingling (paresthesia)
- Poor balance
- Tremors in the hands when reaching for objects
Additionally, physical symptoms may involve:
- Cranial nerve involvement
- Abnormalities in gait
- Motor deficits
- Reduced or absent deep tendon reflexes
- Sensory deficits
- Impaired coordination
The disease progression can vary greatly among patients. While some may experience severe paralysis and intense numbness and tingling, others may have a slower progression with milder symptoms, primarily difficulty walking due to poor balance and decreased endurance.