What is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve disorder affecting people with diabetes. It is more common in people with high blood sugar levels and there are several types.
Types of Neuropathy
- Autonomic neuropathy affects nerves that control unconscious body functions such as digestion, circulation and sex drive.
- Focal neuropathy affects a specific group of nerves that control a single muscle. It may cause problems with eye movement, or the drooping of one cheek.
- Peripheral neuropathy affects the longest nerves in the body – those that carry sensation from the brain to the spinal cord and on to extremities. This is the predominant form of neuropathy affecting the legs and the feet.
Who is Affected?
Both type 1 and type 2 diabetics are equally affected, as well as those with poorly controlled blood glucose levels. Individuals who have been diabetic for a long time are more likely to be affected by neuropathy and the likelihood increases past age 40. Diabetics who smoke are especially at risk.
Causes
Causes are not completely understood, but it is known that blood sugar surrounding nerve cells forces the cells to adjust their sugar content to achieve balance. Cells then increase sorbitol production, which is known to damage nerves. Damage to blood vessels can also affect nerves by decreasing the amount of oxygen they receive.
Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Numbness, tingling, burning sensations and hypersensitivity are all commonly experienced by those suffering from neuropathy. Loss of balance and coordination can result because of numbness.
A foot specialist or podiatrist can perform specific tests to check for neuropathy and determine severity. He or she can then prescribe a specific course of treatment. Electronic Signal Treatment is a new form of treatment for neuropathy that involves a chemical nerve block and electronic pulses to stimulate nerves and reduce painful symptoms.
Consult a podiatrist to diagnose symptoms and explore treatment options.
Diabetic neuropathies. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.prevention.com/health-conditions/diabetic-neuropathies
