Signs & Symptoms of Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a serious complication of diabetes. It is thought that prolonged exposure to high levels of blood glucose (blood sugar) damages the nerves in people with diabetes. Damage to blood vessels caused by diabetes means that the nerves do not get enough oxygen and nutrients. Other factors, like smoking, can increase your risk of developing neuropathy.
The most common type of neuropathy seen in diabetic patients is called Peripheral Neuropathy which causes pain or loss of feeling in the toes, feet, legs, hands, and arms.
Symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy include the following:
Symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy include the following:
- Tingling of the lower extremities and feet
- Numbness (severe or long term numbness can be permanent)
- Burning (Especially in the evening)
- Pain
- Sharp, jabbing or electric like pain in your feet
- Lack of coordination
- Muscle weakness or paralysis if motor nerves are affected
- Foot or ankle pain
- Foot or leg swelling
- Indigestion, nausea, vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Problems with urination
- Weakness