Differential Diagnosis for Burning Nerve Pain in Legs
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Diabetic Neuropathy: This is the most common cause of burning nerve pain in the legs, especially in patients with a history of diabetes. The high blood sugar levels damage the nerves over time, leading to symptoms such as burning pain, numbness, and tingling in the legs.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): PAD can cause burning pain in the legs due to reduced blood flow. This pain often occurs during walking and is relieved by rest.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This condition can cause burning pain, swelling, and skin changes in the legs due to poor blood circulation.
- Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and tender points, which can include burning nerve pain in the legs.
- Herniated Disk or Spinal Stenosis: Compression of the spinal nerves can cause burning pain, numbness, and tingling in the legs.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition that causes rapid onset of muscle weakness and numbness, which can start in the legs and ascend to the rest of the body.
- Spinal Cord Compression: Compression of the spinal cord can cause burning pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs, and if not treated promptly, can lead to permanent damage.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins of the legs can cause burning pain, swelling, and warmth, and can be life-threatening if it breaks loose and travels to the lungs.
Rare Diagnoses
- Amyloidosis: A group of diseases that can cause burning nerve pain in the legs due to the deposition of abnormal proteins in the nerves.
- Leprosy (Hansen's Disease): A chronic bacterial infection that can cause burning nerve pain, numbness, and skin lesions in the legs.
- Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause burning nerve pain in the legs, as well as dry eyes and mouth.
- Vitamin Deficiency (B12 or Vitamin E): Deficiencies in these vitamins can cause burning nerve pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs.