Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes and can affect many aspects of life and severely limit patients’ daily functions. Diabetic neuropathy is defined as “the presence of symptoms and/or signs of peripheral nerve dysfunction in people with diabetes after the exclusion of other causes.” Which is mainly Diabetic vasculopathy or peripheral vascular disease (PAD).
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What are the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy?
Neuropathic pain is often described as a burning sensation and affected areas are often sensitive to the touch. Symptoms of neuropathic pain include excruciating pain, pins and needles, lack of coordination and falling, muscle weakness and numbness. Oftentimes diabetic vasculopathy symptoms overlap the neuropathy symptoms.
More than 50% of people with type-1 diabetes mellitus will experience nerve damage (neuropathy). Diabetes neuropathy may lead to impotency and foot ulcer, which the latter will further lead to infections and amputation. The direct effect of long-term hyperglycemia which is seen in Type I diabetes or common poor sugar control in Type-II diabetes causing decreased blood flow will damage nerve.
How to manage Diabetic neuropathy?
- Get early screening of Diabetic Vasculopathy and Neuropathy at CACVI.
- Foot care, including daily checks, cleaning, moisturizing, trimming toenails, wearing clean and dry socks and cushioned, well-fitting shoes.
- Many diabetic neuropathy patients actually have diabetic vasculopathy with severe venous insufficiency and peripheral arterial disease.
