Diabetic Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes. It can affect the feet, legs, arms, digestive system, urinary tract, heart, and eyes. A diabetic can suffer from pain, numbness, tingling, burning, weakness, sensitivity, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, urinary problems, sexual problems, sweating problems, and vision problems. Infections, ulcers, amputations, and cardiovascular diseases can also occur as a result of diabetic neuropathy.
Causes of Diabetic Neuropathy
Having high blood sugar levels for an extended period of time can damage nerves and blood vessels that supply them with oxygen and nutrients. Other factors that can contribute to nerve damage include:
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Smoking, which can impair blood circulation and worsen nerve damage
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Alcohol abuse, which can interfere with nerve function and cause nutritional deficiencies
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Mechanical injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, which can compress the nerves
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Inflammation, which can trigger an immune response that damages the nerves
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Genetic factors, which can make some people more prone to nerve damage
Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy
The symptoms of diabetic neuropathy depend on the type and location of the affected nerves. There are four main types of diabetic neuropathy:
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A peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves in the feet, legs, hands, and arms and causes numbness, tingling, burning, pain, sensitivity, muscle weakness, and foot problems.
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A condition known as autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves that control involuntary body functions, such as blood pressure, heart rate, digestion, urination, and sexuality. There can be dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bladder problems, sexual problems, and sweating problems as a result.
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Proximal neuropathy, which affects the nerves in the thighs, hips, buttocks, or abdomen. It can cause pain, weakness, and weight loss in one side of the body.
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Focal neuropathy, which affects a single nerve, usually in the head, torso, or leg. It can cause sudden pain, weakness, or paralysis in the affected area.
Diabetic neuropathy can present with mild or no symptoms, while others may experience severe and disabling symptoms. Symptoms may worsen at night or during stressful periods.
Diagnosis of Diabetic Neuropathy
The doctor will ask you about your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle in order to diagnose diabetic neuropathy. Your doctor will also perform a physical exam and check your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. You may also be asked to undergo some tests to determine the extent and type of nerve damage, such as:
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Filament test, which uses a soft nylon fiber to test your sensitivity to touch
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Sensory test, which uses a device to test your response to vibration and temperature changes
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Nerve conduction study, which measures how fast the electrical signals travel along your nerves
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Electromyography, which measures the electrical activity of your muscles
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Autonomic test, which measures how your blood pressure, heart rate, and sweating change in different situations
Treatment of Diabetic Neuropathy
A diabetic neuropathy treatment can slow down the progression, relieve the symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life. Diabetic neuropathy treatment may include:
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Medications, such as painkillers, anti-seizure drugs, antidepressants, and topical creams, to reduce the pain and discomfort
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Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress, to improve blood sugar control and overall health
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Prevent foot problems and infections by inspecting your feet daily, washing and drying them gently, moisturizing them, trimming your nails, wearing comfortable shoes and socks, and avoiding injuries.
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Devices, such as braces, splints, orthotics, and prosthetics, to support and protect the affected limbs and improve mobility
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To improve muscle strength, function, and blood circulation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, biofeedback, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) are used
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Surgery, such as nerve decompression, nerve grafting, or spinal cord stimulation, to relieve the pressure or restore the function of the damaged nerves
Prevention of Diabetic Neuropathy
In order to prevent diabetic neuropathy, your blood sugar levels should remain within a target range recommended by your doctor. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of nerve damage and reduce the risk of complications. Additionally, you can take steps to protect your nerves and prevent further damage, including:
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Checking your blood sugar levels regularly and adjusting your medication, diet, and exercise accordingly
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Following your doctor’s advice on managing your diabetes and other health conditions, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol
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Taking good care of your feet and reporting any problems to your doctor as soon as possible
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Having regular check-ups with your doctor and getting screened for nerve damage and other complications
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Seeking medical help if you experience any symptoms of diabetic neuropathy or worsening of your condition
There are various symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, but with proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, you can manage your condition and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
