All you need to know about Diabetic Neuropathy

By Ujala Cygnus

Reviewed by : Jalaz Jain

January 27, 2023

Overview

Diabetic neuropathy is a complication of long-term uncontrolled diabetes. Even if diabetes is controlled, many cases have been reported. This disorder is associated with damaged nerves due to high blood glucose levels. The lower extremities (legs and feet) are the most commonly affected areas.

This condition is seen in over 50% of diabetic cases. However, the only upside is that it is a slowly progressing disease.

Types

Diabetic neuropathic can occur in the following four forms:

It is the most common type and affects the feet and hands.

This type of neuropathy involves the nerves that control the involuntary functions of the body, such as urination, heart rate, and others.

This type of neuropathy damages nerves along the body’s thoracic (chest) or lumbar and proximal (legs).

This neuropathy affects any particular nerve.

Causes

There is no known cause of any of the neuropathies. However, it is believed that high blood sugar levels are responsible for damaging nerves and interfering with their ability to transmit signals. As a result, diabetic neuropathy develops. In addition, high blood sugar is also known to weaken blood vessel walls supplying the body. Alternatively, metformin, a commonly prescribed medicine for managing diabetes, decrease vitamin B12 levels. A deficiency of this vitamin can cause neuropathy.

Symptoms

Feet are the first to be affected by diabetic neuropathy, and the initial symptom is painful pins and needles in the feet. Other symptoms are:

Sensitivity to touch

Loss of sense of touch

Excessive or decreased sweating

Bladder problems, such as incomplete bladder emptying

Vaginal dryness

Erectile dysfunction

Difficulty with coordination when walking

Inability to sense low blood glucose

Vision trouble, such as double vision

Numbness in the feet

Burning sensation in feet, especially at night

Muscle weakness or wasting

Bloating or fullness

Nausea, indigestion, or vomiting

Diarrhea or constipation

Dizziness on standing up

Increased heart rate

A physical exam helps diagnose the condition. Doctors look for signs of ankle reflex, changes in skin texture, skin color, and loss of sensation. If they suspect diabetic neuropathy, they may advise the following tests:

Blood pressure

Electromyogram (EMG) to assess the electrical activity in the muscles

Nerve conduction velocity test (NCV) to evaluate the speed at which induced signals pass through the nerves

Treatment

Diabetic neuropathy cannot be cured. However, its progression can be delayed. By controlling blood sugar levels and following a healthier lifestyle, it is possible to slow diabetic neuropathy. In addition, doctors may prescribe medicines to provide symptomatic relief.

Prevention

It is possible to prevent the development of diabetic neuropathy by managing diabetes well. Some preventive measures include:

Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels

Taking medicines regularly

Managing the diet

Living an active lifestyle

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