Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic Neuropathy

    In diabetic neuropathy, nerve damage occurs when diabetes affects the blood vessels that supply blood to the nerves.  When diabetes is not properly controlled, the high levels of glucose in the blood will directly damage the peripheral nerves and also the blood vessels that supply them.  However, with good diabetes control and management, the risk of developing diabetic neuropathy can be almost reduced by half.

    Symptoms in diabetic neuropathy include tingling, pins and needles sensation, burning, itching, numbness and sometimes, severe pain.  These symptoms usually develop gradually over a number of years.  Diabetic neuropathy, most of the time, affects the legs and feet.  There are a few problems that arise from the narrowing of the arteries to the legs and feet, penis and skin due to atherosclerosis.  These problems are:

  •     Gangrene

    • Gangrene is a condition where death occurs in tissues in a part of the body, which is usually caused by lack of adequate blood supply.
       

  •     Impotence

    • Impotence in men is the inability to have sexual intercourse.  This is due to the poor supply of blood to the penis.
       

  •     Poor healing of any wound

    If there is loss in sensation in the feet, a minor injury to them (such as rubbing by ill-fitting shoes) may go unnoticed.  Healing of wound will be slow due to the poor supply of blood to the area.  This may lead to infection.  Besides, diabetic foot ulcers may also develop. In severe cases, gangrene develops.  Diabetic patients are more prone to infections than people without diabetes.  Therefore, diabetic patients should ensure their immune systems are always in tip-top condition.

    If you suspect you might have developed diabetic neuropathy, you should consult your doctor immediately.  Based on the conditions of your symptoms, your doctor may come up with the diagnosis.  Your doctor will  help you to carefully monitor your blood glucose level and advise you on proper diabetic foot care.  The goal in treating diabetic neuropathy is to prevent further nerve damage and the development of diabetes complications.

    The risk of developing diabetic neuropathy can be reduced greatly if your diabetes is well controlled or managed.   Well-managed blood sugar level may even stop the further progression of diabetic neuropathy.  However, nerves that have been damaged are permanently damaged which means nerve damage is irreversible.

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