Neuropathy is damage of nerves that can results in numbness, tingling, muscle weakness and pain in the affected area. Nerve cells or neurons, are damaged or destroyed. This interferes with the way the neurons communicate with each other and with the brain.
Peripheral neuropathy, indicates a problem within the peripheral nervous system which is the network of nerves outside your brain and spinal cord.
Now, there can be many causes of peripheral neuropathy but in about 60% to 70% of cases, diabetes was the underlying cause.
There are 5 main symptoms of diabetic neuropathy:
1. Tingling, burning or prickling sensation in the extremities.
2. Numbness and/or pain in the hands, legs and feet.
3. Weakness of the muscles in the feet and hands.
4. Extreme sensitivity to touch.
5. Insensitivity to pain or temperature changes.
Treatments for diabetic neuropathy include dietary changes and exercise, controlling blood glucose levels, prevention of injury which may take time to heal, and controlling or managing pain or cramps.
Having high blood sugar levels over time is the biggest risk factor for developing diabetic neuropathy but people with high triglyceride levels, people who smoke or have high blood pressure as well as having BMI level that is higher than 24 are also at risk.
Diabetic neuropathy is often diagnosed via a physical examination of the feet but doctors may also recommend having a nerve biopsy, or imaging tests.
Need guidance on how to control and manage your neuropathy? Check out my Neuropathy Revolution program
No Comments