Diabetic Neuropathy – Types and Symptoms

Diabetes is sometimes called the “silent killer” because the symptoms may be missed during the onset of the disease. Nerve damage is one of the effects of diabetes and is referred to as diabetic neuropathy. There are several kinds of diabetic neuropathy and the nerve damage that occurs would depend on the type you have. Diabetic neuropathy usually develops slowly and symptoms may be overlooked till after considerable nerve damage occurs. This is why it is important to check your sugar levels regularly.

Types of diabetic neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy

This is the most common type of neuropathy associated with diabetes. Symptoms include:-
• Sudden numbness in the lower extremities
• Loss of ability to feel pain
• Loss of sensation to heat and cold
• Tingling in extremities
• Burning sensation in hands and feet
• Cramps
• Muscles may weaken
• Sensitivity to touch
• Balance and coordination are impaired
• Loss of reflexes
• Susceptibility to ulcers and infections in the feet
• Bone and joint pain

Autonomic neuropathy

This may be more difficult to detect as the symptoms are not easy to identify. They include:-
• Hypoglycemic unawareness
• Urinary infections
• Incontinence
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Stomach problems
• Light headedness

Diabetic amyotrophy

This is more common with type 2 diabetes and affects nerves in the thighs, hips, buttocks or legs. Symptoms include:
• Intense pain in hip, thigh and buttock
• Weakening of thigh muscles
• Weight loss
• Abdominal swelling

Mononeuropathy

This affects specific nerves and can be quite painful. Symptoms include:-
• Pain on shin
• Lower back pain
• Pain in chest or abdomen

When mononeuropathy affects a nerve on the face it can cause:-
• Blurry or double vision
• Eye pain
• Bell’s palsy
• Weakness and impaired coordination in the area affected

Dealing with diabetes

Once diagnosed, a person has to learn to live with diabetes. Lifestyle changes are the best way to deal with diabetes. If you are fortunate and the disease is detected at an early stage, regulating food and exercise and being managing it may be enough.

But, if it is detected later, regular medication may be needed to keep it under control. It is important to find a good doctor and team to help you manage your diabetes. Having the help and support of your family and friends is important. With the right kind of treatment and support, you can manage your diabetes and live a quality life.

 

Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and pediatric trauma care.

Chennai – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4003500 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 6801