Facts about diabetic neuropathy

Facts about Diabetic Neuropathy Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that occurs due to diabetics.

Diabetic Neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur as a result of diabetes. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, between 60-70% of people diagnosed with diabetes have some form of neuropathy. High blood sugar can damage the nerve fibers in the feet, legs, eyes and other nerves that manage bodily functions related to blood pressure, heart rate and digestion. This condition is more prevalent in those patients who have had diabetes for a number of years and can lead to several complications.

Symptoms The symptoms of this disorder can range from severe pain and numbness to problems with the digestive system, blood vessels, urinary tract and heart rate. Signs and symptoms may vary from one person to another as well as according to the specific type of diabetic neuropathy that the patient is suffering from.

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Types of Diabetic Neuropathy •

Peripheral neuropathy – This common condition affects the peripheral nerves in the feet and legs. The main symptoms include shooting pain, burning sensation, numbness or tingling of the feet and legs, and loss of sensation in the feet or lower legs.

•

Autonomic neuropathy – This condition damages the autonomic nervous system that controls body functions related to the heart, lungs, bladder, stomach, intestines and eyes.

Common symptoms include low blood pressure, sweating, constipation, nausea and diarrhea.

•

Thoracic/Lumbar radiculopathy – This condition occurs due to compression of the nerves as they exit the spine, or due to tumor or infection. Neck and back pain are the prominent symptoms.

•

Charcot’s

joint

(neurogenic

arthropathy)

–

This

is

a

progressive

degenerative/destructive joint disorder. It causes swelling, joint instability, and abnormal pain sensations.

•

Femoral neuropathy – Femoral dysfunction occurs when a patient cannot move or feel part of their leg as the nerves are damaged. This condition results in weakness, predominantly of the quadriceps.

•

Foot drop – Also called drop foot, this is a general term for difficulty in lifting the front portion of the foot. This causes the toes to drag along the ground while walking.

Diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy is typically based on the patient’s symptoms, medical history and a physical exam. Factors such as muscle strength and tone, tendon reflexes, and sensitivity to touch, temperature and vibration are also evaluated.

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Reliable health centers offer customized treatment plans for managing diabetic neuropathy symptoms which include chiropractic care, physical therapy and diabetic nerve pain relief.

Though this condition is a serious complication of diabetes, it is possible control its progress with strict control of blood glucose levels and a healthy lifestyle. Active and passive forms of exercise help to reduce cramps, improve muscle strength, and check muscle wasting. Smoking cessation is also important as smoking constricts the blood vessels that provide nutrients to the peripheral nerves and can aggravate symptoms.

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