What Is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Diabetic Neuropathies are a family of nerve disorders caused by diabetes. It is estimated that anywhere from 40% to 60% of diabetics experience some degree of neuropathy, although many people will not experience symptoms until 10 - 20 years after diagnosis.
Diabetic neuropathy is caused when exposure to high blood sugar (glucose) begins to damage sensitive nerve fibers. This damage causes interruptions in transmission from the nerves to the brain, resulting in numbness, tingling, or burning sensations, especially in the feet. Some other symptoms include difficulty swallowing, sharp, jabbing pain, difficulty walking, extreme sensitivity to even the slightest touch, nausea, and infections. Many people experience other symptoms as well. If you notice any pain or irregularities, be sure to notify your doctor immediately.
Although there is no cure for diabetic neuropathy, some patients are able to find relief from nerve damage by maintaining control of their glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Keeping regular appointments with your doctor and reporting any irregularities is very important, as your doctor may be able to prescribe medications or recommend exercises to help alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by nerve damage.