Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve damage condition that can affect people with diabetes. Different types of nerve damage can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from pain and numbness in the feet to problems with internal organ functions, such as the heart and bladder.
Over time, elevated blood glucose levels (blood sugar) and high levels of fats like triglycerides in the blood, common in diabetes, can damage nerves. Symptoms vary depending on the specific type of diabetic neuropathy.
Nerves are bundles of specialized tissues that transmit signals between the brain and other body parts. These signals:
- Convey sensory information
- Control muscle movement
- Regulate bodily functions like digestion
Individuals with diabetes are more likely to develop nerve damage if they also:
- Are overweight
- Have high blood pressure
- Have high cholesterol
- Have advanced kidney disease
- Consume excessive alcohol
- Smoke
Research also suggests that certain genes may make people more likely to develop diabetic neuropathy.
Causes for diabetic neuropathy
Prolonged exposure to high blood glucose levels and elevated blood fats can damage nerves. High blood sugar levels can also harm small blood vessels, which supply oxygen and nutrients to the nerves. Without adequate oxygen and nutrients, nerve function deteriorates.
While various types of diabetic neuropathy can affect people with diabetes, peripheral neuropathy is the most common, affecting up to half of individuals with the condition. More than 30% of people with diabetes experience autonomic neuropathy.
The most common type of focal neuropathy is carpal tunnel syndrome, where a nerve in the wrist becomes compressed. Although less than 10% of people with diabetes experience symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, approximately 25% exhibit some degree of nerve compression at the wrist.
Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.
Symptoms depend on the specific type of diabetic neuropathy. In peripheral neuropathy, individuals may experience numbness in the feet or burning or shooting pain in the lower legs. Most nerve damage develops gradually over many years, and some people may not notice mild symptoms for a long time. In certain cases, severe pain can onset suddenly.
Preventing diabetic neuropathy.
To prevent diabetic neuropathy, it’s crucial to manage blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Consider these steps to help prevent diabetes-related nerve damage:
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Adhere to a diabetes-friendly meal plan
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol consumption to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men
- Take prescribed diabetes medications and other medications as directed
Preventing diabetic neuropathy from getting worse.
Managing blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and weight can help prevent further nerve damage.
Foot care is essential for all people with diabetes, especially those with peripheral neuropathy. Individuals with diabetes should inspect their feet daily for any issues and practice good foot hygiene. Annual neurological and foot exams are recommended, and more frequent examinations may be necessary for individuals with foot problems.
Sources: What is Diabetic Nrutopahy? National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease; Diabetic neuropathy: a position statement by the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care. 2017;40(1):136–154.Pop-Busui R, Boulton AJ, Feldman EL, et al.; Diabetic neuropathies. Seminars in Neurology. 2015;35(4):424–430. [2] Izenberg A, Perkins BA, Bril V.
We hope this information is helpful to you in the important work you do as a family caregiver.
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