Diabetic neuropathy is serious and common nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes. This is caused by long term high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and obesity. Diabetic neuropathy develops gradually and worsens over the course of time.
It can affect the nerves outside the skull, and the spinal cord. It also affects the nerves which control the functioning of many organs, like bladder, heart, and intestines. Additionally, it affects the nerves outside of the body like the hands and feet.
You can often prevent neuropathy or slow its progress with tight diet control, blood sugar control and a healthy lifestyle.
Types of Diabetic Neuropathy
The four main types of neuropathy which impact the nervous system are:
- Autonomic neuropathy
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Proximal neuropathy
- Focal neuropathy
Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy
Loss of sense of touch
Burning sensation in the leg and feet
Numbness or pain in hands and feet
Dizziness
Feeling full sooner than usual
Weakness in the muscles
Bladder problems
Trouble in vision
Decreased or excessive sweating
When to See a Doctor
Call your physician for an appointment if you have:
- Change in your digestion, sexual or urination function
- Weakness or burning sensation in your feet or hands
- A cut in your foot which is taking a long time to heal
There are various types of neuropathy that affect different areas in our body. There are different types of symptoms for each neuropathy, if you have diabetics, regularly check with your physician and maintain a healthy diet.
