by Doreen Martel

Created on: February 06, 2009   Last Updated: February 10, 2012

Neuropathy is easily defined as “any and all disease or malfunctions of the nerves”. Diabetic patients who have high blood sugar levels often suffer from diabetic neuropathy, which is caused by nerve damage.  Understanding neuropathy in diabetics can be complicated since there are three potential types of this disorder. They include:

Peripheral Neuropathy – When a diabetic patient suffers from nerve damage of the feet and legs, they can have problems with muscle strength, they can develop severe foot problems and they may lose some sensation in their feet and legs;

Neuropathy – Diabetic patients who have high blood pressure, poor digestion and urination problems may be suffering from autonomic neuropathy. Symptoms may be minor such as slight dizziness or may be more complicated such as fainting.

Focal Neuropathy – Diabetic patients may suffer nerve damage that affects only a single nerve. This can be in the back, the chest or even the muscle that controls the eyes.  In general, this type of neuropathy strikes with no warning and can have devastating long-term effects.

Neuropathy and aging

As diabetic patients age, they have a greater risk of developing one form (or multiple forms) of diabetic neuropathy. In some patients symptoms may be very mild and may often be overlooked as other problems. The symptoms that are most commonly overlooked are sexual problems in both men and women (including erectile dysfunction and vaginal dryness).  In general, if you believe you are suffering from form of neuropathy, your doctor may run tests to confirm whether you have a form of diabetic neuropathy.

Treatment of neuropathy

In most cases, neuropathy can be successfully treated. The treatments will be largely dependent upon the type of neuropathy that you have developed. Pain may be managed with over the counter or prescription medications, changes in diet may also be effective and problems with high or low blood pressure may be countered with treatments and/or special stockings.

Foot damage and neuropathy

It is critical to remember that you may suffer from severe foot problems with diabetic neuropathy. It is not uncommon for those who suffer with this to develop blisters and sore spots. It is critical that you always carefully examine your feet and make sure they are properly cared for.   Do not risk losing a toe because you are wearing ill fitting shoes or fail to check your feet for problems.

Diabetics must always do their best through a sensible combination of diet, exercise and medication to help them stay healthy. Talking to your doctor about any unusual changes in your body can help you avoid the potential long term consequences of diabetic neuropathy.

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