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Diabetic Neuropathy

Overview

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur in people with diabetes.

It is caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of blood sugar, which can injure the nerves throughout the body.

Diabetic neuropathy most commonly affects the nerves in the legs and feet, but it can also affect nerves in other parts of the body.

There are several types of diabetic neuropathy, including:

  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Autonomic neuropathy
  • Proximal neuropathy
  • Focal neuropathy
  • Causes

    Diabetic neuropathy develops gradually over time due to prolonged exposure to high levels of blood sugar, which is characteristic of diabetes. 

  • Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
  • Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)
  • Reduced nerve growth factor
  • Inflammation and oxidative stress
  • Symptoms

    Peripheral neuropathy:

  • Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes in the feet and legs.
  • Tingling or burning sensations.
  • Sharp or shooting pains, often described as stabbing or electric shock-like sensations.
  • Increased sensitivity to touch.
  • Muscle weakness or loss of coordination.
  • Autonomic neuropathy:

  • Digestive problems, such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting.
  • Bladder dysfunction, such as urinary incontinence or difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
  • Sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction in men and vaginal dryness.
  • Changes in heart rate or blood pressure, leading to lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting.
  • Proximal neuropathy:

  • Severe pain in the thighs, hips, or buttocks, often on one side of the body.
  • Muscle weakness, typically affecting the legs.
  • Focal neuropathy:

  • Sudden, severe pain in specific areas of the body, such as the head, or leg.
  • Muscle weakness or paralysis, often affecting one side of the body.
  • Difficulty focusing the eyes, double vision, or pain behind the eyes.
  • Treatment: Modern Medicine

  • Blood sugar control
  • Pain management
  • Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
  • Peripheral neuropathy-specific medications
  • Treatment: Traditional Medicine

  • Warm baths
  • Foot care
  • Acupuncture
  • Herbal supplements
  • Aromatherapy
  • Caution

  • Consult with healthcare provider
  • Safety
  • Quality of supplements
  • Effectiveness
  • Prevention

  • Monitor and manage other risk factors
  • Quit smoking
  • Manage foot health

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    Disclaimer: The information provided on this platform is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional, such as a physician, doctor, or nutritionist, before making any health-related decisions.

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