What is diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a form of nerve damage that results from uncontrolled blood sugar when you have diabetes. It often affects nerves in your feet or legs — symptoms of the condition range in severity from mild to severe and crippling. See the JAM Wellness Clinics team at the first sign of a problem.

What are the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy?

Common signs and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy include:

• Tingling
• Burning discomfort
• Sharp or cramping pain
• Reduced hot and cold sensitivity
• Numbness
• Open foot wounds
• Other foot problems
• Bowel or bladder issues
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Fainting

You could also experience vision or eye problems, paralysis, or weakness with diabetic neuropathy. Complications that may occur include urinary tract infections (UTIs), the need for amputation, digestive problems, increased or decreased sweating, and sexual dysfunction.

What are the risk factors for diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy can happen to anyone with diabetes, but some factors increase your risk of developing it. Poor blood sugar control is the main risk factor, as well as a family history of diabetic neuropathy, smoking, being overweight, and kidney disease.

Maintaining an ideal body weight and making other healthy lifestyle changes to control blood sugar is the best prevention strategy to avoid diabetic neuropathy and other diabetes-related complications.

How does my doctor diagnose diabetic neuropathy?

To find out if you have diabetic neuropathy, your JAM Wellness Clinics specialist discusses your symptoms and medical history. They complete a comprehensive physical exam, including a neurological exam, and may order blood tests or have you complete nerve tests, muscle response testing, sensory tests, or other types of diagnostic testing.

How is diabetic neuropathy treated?

Common treatments for diabetic neuropathy include:

Lifestyle changes

Adopting healthy habits is the best way to control blood sugar and reduce the risk of neuropathy disease progression. Eat nutritious foods, maintain a healthy weight, get regular exercise, and don’t smoke.

Medications

Taking medications can reduce unpleasant symptoms of diabetic neuropathy and help you better control blood sugar levels.

If you have diabetes and symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy, call JAM Wellness Clinics or schedule an appointment online today.