Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that affects the nerves. The American Diabetes Association® reports that about half of all diabetics suffer from neuropathy. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerve fibers, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling and pain in the affected areas.
Types of Diabetic Neuropathy
There are several types of diabetic neuropathy, including peripheral, autonomic, proximal and focal neuropathy. Each type affects different nerves in the body and can cause a range of symptoms.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is the most common form of diabetic neuropathy and typically affects the feet and legs. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, burning sensations and sharp pains. This type of neuropathy can also lead to problems with balance and coordination.
Autonomic Neuropathy
Autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves that control involuntary body functions such as heart rate, digestion, and bladder function. This can lead to symptoms such as dizziness upon standing, digestive issues, and difficulty emptying the bladder.
Proximal Neuropathy
Proximal neuropathy affects the nerves in the thighs, hips, or buttocks and can cause severe pain and muscle weakness. Focal neuropathy, on the other hand, affects a single nerve or group of nerves and can cause sudden, intense pain in the affected area.
Warning Signs of Diabetic Nerve Damage
Early signs of diabetic nerve damage are usually mild. However, if blood sugar levels remain consistently high over an extended period of time, the nerve damage can worsen, leading to increased pain or even a complete loss of sensation. The most common signs include:
- Burning sensations in affected areas
- A “pins and needles” sensation that comes and goes
- Sharp pains or cramps
- Loss of coordination and balance
- Numbness and tingling
As mentioned above, each type of neuropathy affects different nerves in the body and can cause a range of symptoms. If you have any concerns about nerve damage from diabetes, contact one of the five Allied Pain & Spine Institute locations to schedule an exam and consultation.
Neuropathy Prevention
Preventing diabetic neuropathy involves maintaining good blood sugar control and adopting a healthy lifestyle. The San Jose, CA, Pain Management Doctors at the Allied Pain & Spine Institute recommend:
- Regular exercise
- Eating a balanced diet
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Stopping smoking
- Monitoring your blood sugar levels
- Following your doctor’s prescribed health plan
These are essential activities for preventing or delaying the onset of diabetic neuropathy.
Diabetic Neuropathy Treatments
Managing diabetic neuropathy involves controlling blood sugar levels through medication, diet and exercise. Pain management techniques such as medications, physical therapy, acupuncture and biofeedback and TENS nerve stimulation may also be used to alleviate symptoms.
Managing diabetic neuropathy effectively requires a combination of medication, pain management techniques and a better understanding of nutritional and dietary needs. It involves careful monitoring of blood sugar levels and making positive lifestyle choices. While diabetic nerve damage cannot be reversed, symptoms can often be managed to restore or maintain quality of life for the nearly 10% of the U.S. population living with diabetes.
San Jose, CA, Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment
Understanding diabetic neuropathy is crucial for individuals with diabetes, as early detection and management can help prevent further nerve damage and improve quality of life. If you experience symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, it’s important to consult with one of our pain specialists for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Posted on behalf of Allied Pain & Spine Institute
