Also known as Diabetic nerve problems
ABOUT THE DISEASE
Diabetic neuropathies are nerve disorders seen to develop in patients with diabetes, risk being more in persons with longer duration of this illness. It can damage the nerves in every organ of the body like digestive tract, heart, and sex organs . It may remain asymptomatic or commonly lead to pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands, arms, feet, and legs.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms can involve the sensory, motor, and autonomic nervous systems.
It may include:
- • numbness, tingling, or pain in the toes, feet, legs, hands, arms, and fingers
- • wasting of the muscles of the feet or hands
- • indigestion, nausea, or vomiting
- • diarrhea or constipation
- • dizziness
- • urinary problems
- • erectile dysfunction in men
- • vaginal dryness in women
- • weakness
CAUSES
Nerve damage may occur due to:
- high blood glucose and abnormal blood fat levels causing damage to the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to nerves.
- inflammation/mechanical injury to nerves.
- lifestyle risk factors, such as smoking or alcohol use.
DIAGNOSIS
- Clinical Evaluation
- Foot Examination
- Nerve conduction studies
- Electromyography
TREATMENT METHODS
The first treatment step is to bring blood glucose levels within the normal range to help prevent further nerve damage.
Other options include:
• Pain relieving medication.
• Specific treatment for complications, like urinary problems, digestion problems, sexual dysfunction, etc.
You may also like to learn about:
Diabetes mellitus
Diabetic retinopathy
Prediabetes
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Diabetic foot
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