Diabetic Neuropathy

Condition Basics

What is diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves throughout your body.

There are several types.

  • Peripheral neuropathy. This is damage to peripheral nerves, Opens dialog. They sense pain, touch, hot, and cold. They also affect movement and muscle strength. The nerves in the feet and lower legs are most often affected. The damage can get worse with time.
  • Autonomic neuropathy. This is damage to autonomic nerves, Opens dialog. They control things like your heartbeat and blood pressure. They also control digestion, urination, and sexual function.
  • Atypical neuropathies. One type affects just one nerve. It's called mononeuropathy. It often affects a nerve in the wrist or foot. It can also affect a nerve that controls eye muscles. Another type affects many nerves. It's called polyradiculoneuropathy. It often affects nerves in the back and chest. These types of nerve damage happen all of a sudden. They can get better with time.

What causes it?

Over time, high blood sugar levels from diabetes can damage nerves throughout your body. The higher your blood sugar levels, the more likely you are to have nerve damage. Also, the older you get and the longer you have diabetes, the more likely you are to have nerve damage.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms depend on which nerves are injured. You may have burning or shooting pain in your arms and legs. Or you may not be able to feel pain, especially in your feet. This can lead to serious infections if sores aren't treated. Other symptoms may include problems with digestion, urination, and blood vessels.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will do a physical exam. They will ask about your health and current symptoms, including how well you can feel light touch, temperature, vibration, and movement. You'll also be asked about any symptoms such as pain, weakness, or urinary or digestive problems. You may need a nerve test for a diagnosis.

How is diabetic neuropathy treated?

Treatment involves keeping blood sugar levels in your target range. This will not cure the nerve damage, but it can help keep the damage from getting worse, and the pain might get better. Other treatments, such as medicines for pain or digestive problems, depend on your symptoms.

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Information about Diabetic Neuropathy

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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