Neuropathy leads to nerve damage that causes pain, weakness, or numbness, and diabetic neuropathy results from diabetes. This condition develops over time when high blood sugar levels injure nerves throughout the body. Understanding this connection helps recognize the signs and manage the condition effectively. Here is more information about the connection between neuropathy and diabetes:
High Glucose Levels
When blood sugar levels are consistently high, it damages the small blood vessels that supply your nerves with oxygen and nutrients. This deprivation affects the nerves’ ability to function properly, and without adequate blood flow, nerve fibers become injured and may eventually die, leading to the symptoms of neuropathy.
Controlling blood glucose is a primary step in managing this condition. Consistent management of diabetes may be recommended, and it slows the progression of nerve damage. Managing your blood sugar involves a combination of diet, exercise, and medication as recommended, so it requires a dedicated daily routine.
Injured Nerves
Nerve injury from high glucose levels disrupts the communication between your brain and other parts of your body. Depending on which nerves are affectedThis disruption manifests in various ways. You might experience sensations, and these range from tingling to sharp pains.
The damage is not always reversible, but its progression can be managed. The body’s nervous system is complex, and injury to one part affects overall function. As the damage progresses, the symptoms typically become more pronounced, impacting daily activities and quality of life.
There are different types of diabetic neuropathy, each affecting a different set of nerves. One type is peripheral neuropathy, which typically affects the feet and legs. Other types are autonomic, proximal, and focal neuropathy, and each has distinct symptoms and affects different areas of the body.
Affects Legs and Feet
Diabetic neuropathy typically impacts the nerves in the legs and feet, and this is why foot care is a significant part of diabetes management. When it occurs, early symptoms may appear in the toes or balls of the feet before spreading upward.
The initial sensations may include:
- Tingling feeling
- Burning sensations
- Shooting pains
These symptoms can make walking and standing uncomfortable, and this impacts daily life. Because the feet are farthest from the heart, they are particularly vulnerable to circulation issues, which makes nerve damage in this area an issue and slower to heal.
Increased Numbness
As neuropathy progresses, the pain and tingling may give way to a loss of sensation, or numbness. Numbness poses a risk because it can mask injuries like cuts, blisters, or sores. You may not feel a small pebble in your shoe or a developing blister, which allows minor issues to become more serious without you realizing it. This loss of feeling makes it difficult to detect temperature changes or pressure, increasing the risk of burns or other injuries.
Get Treated for Diabetic Neuropathy
Managing diabetic neuropathy focuses on slowing the progression of the disease and relieving symptoms. The foundation of treatment is maintaining stable blood glucose levels through disciplined diabetes management. If you are experiencing symptoms of tingling, pain, or numbness in your hands or feet, it is best to speak with a healthcare professional. Contact a spine and sports medicine specialist today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options for managing diabetic neuropathy.