Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a disorder that involves nerve swelling and irritation (inflammation) that leads to a loss of strength or sensation.

CIDP is usually treated by neurologists, which are doctors specializing in disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Neurologists are experienced in handling conditions that affect how nerves send messages to and from the brain. For CIDP, they may use special tests like nerve conduction studies, or electromyography, to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, a team of specialists may be involved in treatment, including physical therapists to help with strength and movement, as well as occupational therapists to support daily activities.  

CIDP treatment aims to reduce nerve damage by stopping the immune system from attacking the body’s own nerves. Treatment often includes medications called corticosteroids, which help reduce inflammation around the nerves. Another common treatment is intravenous immunoglobulin, which gives the body healthy antibodies to help calm the immune system. Plasma exchange, or plasmapheresis, is another option, where blood is filtered to remove substances that may be attacking the nerves. Physical therapy is also important to help people build muscle strength and stay active, which can improve balance and mobility.  

For most people with CIDP, life expectancy is normal, meaning they can live as long as anyone else. CIDP is a chronic, or long-lasting, illness that can make everyday life challenging, especially if it isn’t treated. However, with early and consistent treatment, most people manage their symptoms well. The goal of treatment is to slow down or stop nerve damage, helping people keep their strength and independence. Even though CIDP itself doesn’t shorten life, untreated CIDP can lead to severe nerve damage. 

Symptoms of CIDP usually start with numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs and arms, and can gradually get worse if left untreated. Because symptoms can look like other nerve and muscle problems, it may be mistaken for conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome or multiple sclerosis. Guillain-Barré syndrome, for example, is also a condition where the immune system attacks the nerves, causing symptoms like weakness and tingling. However, GBS usually comes on quickly and lasts for a shorter amount of time. CIDP, on the other hand, involves a slow and steady progression of symptoms that last for the long term.  

There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

• Your primary care provider recommends it. 

• Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 

• You need specialized testing or procedures. 

• You want a second opinion.  

It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

You can find a Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor in any of the 10 largest U.S. cities by clicking below:

Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near New York, NY
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near Los Angeles, CA
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near Chicago, IL
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near Houston, TX
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near Phoenix, AZ
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near Philadelphia, PA
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near Atlanta, GA
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near Boston, MA
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near Dallas, TX
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor near San Jose, CA

MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor search results page. 

Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

• Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 

• Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 

• Family history of disease 

• List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 

• Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  

• List of questions and concerns 

• Your insurance card 

You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

Here are some sample questions: 

• Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 

• What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 

• What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 

• Are there other specialists I need to see? 

• What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

By: MediFind Medical Staff 

Read more about our Content Policy.