Diabetics often suffer from a variety of health problems as a result of their condition, diabetic neuropathy being one of them. This refers to nerve damage that can be the result of having high blood sugar. Since these heightened amounts of glucose can cause injuries to the nerve fibers running through the body, it is possible to experience nerve damage in the feet and legs.
There are several types of neuropathy
Since this refers to nerve damage, there are several types of neuropathy and where it occurs will directly influence the symptoms that are associated with it. For example, autonomic neuropathy is going to cause problems with the stomach, heart, bladder, sex organs, intestines and even the eyes. By comparison peripheral neuropathy impacts the feet and legs, along with arms and hands. Then, radiculoplexus neuropathy can impact the hips, thighs and buttocks. There is even a mononeuropathy which can cause damage to a single nerve instead of causing problems with an entire area. In other words, diabetic neuropathy can impact the entire body.
Symptoms
Anyone who is concerned that they may have this condition should schedule an examination with our office. It is important to treated right away so we do not recommend self diagnosing the problem but instead, visiting us for a professional evaluation. In the meantime, some of the symptoms associated with the condition are:
- Tingling and burning sensations in the feet and legs
- Bladder problems
- Pain in the chest or abdomen
- Dropping things
- Difficulty swallowing
- Sexual problems with men and women
- Irregular body temperature
- Fast heart rate when resting
- Irregular pain
- A lack of coordination
- Obvious foot problems that can include deformities, ulcers and joint pain
- Sensitivity to touch
- Weak muscles
Treating neuropathy
The most important thing is to regulate blood sugar levels by following the doctor’s orders in regards to medication, diet and exercise. Also, stop smoking and try to avoid drinking alcohol.
Some patients may need to take prescription medications in order to find relief from pain. Several have been found to be effective such as anti-seizure medications and antidepressants. Even though these were not originally intended to treat neuropathy, they have been effective. Other medications may be prescribed that are specific towards treating a particular problem. For example if neuropathy is causing sexual dysfunction, medication for ED may be prescribed. If it is leading to digestive problems, medication may be taken for that, etc.
It is possible to feel better
Many of these symptoms can seriously impact a persons’ quality of life. For example, if neuropathy impacts the ability to walk, pick up things, or perform sexually, it could cause daily interference with a persons’ normal routine. This makes it important to seek help right away.
Schedule an examination
Because neuropathy is so incredibly diverse, the only way to make a recommendation for treatment is to conduct a thorough examination, review all of the symptoms associated with it and then create a thorough treatment plan. We encourage you to schedule an appointment with our office so that we can do so.
