Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy mostly comes in four different forms. You can have only one type of neuropathy or several different types. 

Depending on the type you have, and which nerves are impacted, your symptoms will vary. Typically, symptoms appear over time. It is possible that nothing will be wrong with you until there has been significant nerve damage. 

Peripheral neuropathy: normally affects the feet and legs but can also affect the hands and arms. It is the most prevalent form of nerve injury in diabetics. Symptoms may include: 

• Numbness 
• Burning feeling 
• Cramps and muscle weakness 
• High sensitivity to touch 
• Serious foot problems such as infections and ulcers Autonomic neuropathy: damage to the nerves that control your internal organs. Your heart rate, blood pressure, digestive system, bladder, sex organs, sweat glands, eyes, and capacity to detect hypoglycemia can all be affected by autonomic neuropathy. Symptoms may include: 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Loss of appetite 
• Bowel and bladder problems  
• Increased or decreased sweating  
• Problems with how your eye adjusts from light to dark and from far to near 
• Problems with the sexual response (like the failure of erection in men and dryness of the vagina in women) 
• Dizziness or fainting due to blood pressure drop while rising from sitting 

Proximal neuropathy: typically, the nerves in the thighs, hips, buttocks, or legs are affected by this type of neuropathy. Additionally, the chest and abdomen may be impacted. Although they may spread to the other side, symptoms typically only affect one side of the body. Symptoms may include: 

• Severe stomach pain 
• Severe pain in thigh and hips 
• Difficulty getting up from a setting position 

Focal neuropathy: only one nerve is normally affected; these nerves are typically affected in the hand, head, chest, and leg. Symptoms may include: 

• Double vision 
• Paralysis of one side of the face 
• Numbness in the hand or fingers 
• Dropping things because of the weakness of hands 
• Pain behind one eye 

If you experience any of these symptoms, visit a Diabetes and Endocrinology doctor, who might refer you to a Vascular Surgery doctor (Arteries and Vein Surgery doctor) or a Neurologist (Brain and Nerves doctor), for proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent further complications. 

The exact cause of diabetic neuropathy is unknown. According to research, diabetic neuropathy develops over time because of nerve injury and interference with signal transmission caused by unchecked high blood sugar. Additionally, high blood sugar damages the capillary walls that carry nutrients and oxygen to the nerves. Any diabetic patient can develop nerve damage; however, the following factors may increase your risk: 

• Uncontrolled blood sugar levels. 
• Overweight 
• High blood pressure 
• High cholesterol 
• Being a diabetic patient for a long time 
• Smoking 
• Kidney diseases 

Diabetic neuropathy diagnosis involves foot examination for sores, injuries, or decreased sensation. 

To reduce the symptoms caused by diabetic neuropathy, there are numerous treatments available; this could involve erectile dysfunction therapy, painkillers for sensory neuropathy, or nausea and vomiting medicines. 

Maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels will help to lessen the course of nerve damage and aid to alleviate neuropathy symptoms. 

How to prevent diabetic neuropathy: 

If you have diabetic neuropathy, you should manage your diabetes, which includes controlling your blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and blood sugar levels to prevent further nerve damage. 

Everyone with diabetes needs to take good care of their feet, but if you have peripheral neuropathy, this is even more critical. Take proper care of your feet and daily check them for issues. At least once a year, or more frequently if you have foot issues, visit your doctor for a neurological evaluation and a foot examination.