Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetes is a condition that can only be prevented, not cured. Although a number of resources claim cure, what is actually offered is a prevention program. The condition, however, does not manifest itself outwardly in the beginning. The final count down begins with the damage of internal organs. Those diagnosed with diabetes can and in time, develop nerve damage. There are no outward symptoms to the onset, but the pain and tingling should never be ignored. This does not pertain to the whole body as such or an overall outward manifestation. Diabetic Neuropathy causes nerve problems within every organ system of the body.

The fatal condition affects the digestive system and even the heart. This condition affects 75 percent of diabetics the world over. The different forms of neuropathy develop at any point in time and increases with age. The most commonly affected are people who are unable to control the blood glucose level. Diabetic neuropathy is also observed in patients who are overweight and have a blood pressure problem.

Causes:

Diabetic Neuropathy does not have any one common cause. There is yet much research to be done on the effect of prolonged high blood glucose on imminent nerve damage. However, research already conducted reveals a number of metabolic, lifestyle and autoimmune factors responsible for the condition. The metabolic factors include high blood glucose and abnormal levels of blood fat, other than low insulin levels. Any damage to or inflammation of the blood vessels that connect nerves with oxygen and nutrition also causes Diabetic Neuropathy. The carpal tunnel syndrome or inherited nerve disease are other damaging factors. Consumption of alcohol and smoking are also known to aggravate the condition.

Symptoms:

While neuropathy can be devoid of any symptom at all, clinical research reveals instances of numbness and tingling. Some patients also complain about pain in the feet. If these are not paid attention to in time, they could spread to involve complex internal systems such as the sensory, motor and involuntary nervous system. The type and amount of pain felt could differ from patient to patient. Nerve damage also manifests in the form of wasting muscles of the limbs, indigestion, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, erectile dysfunction and vaginal dryness. Most of the symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy are not due to the nerve damage within. They manifest more because of the trauma that accompanies depression, tension and severe weight loss. Diabetic neuropathy needs to be researched upon, not only by those afflicted by the condition, but also by those who have a family history.

Types of Diabetic Neuropathy:There are different types of Diabetic Neuropathy.

• Peripheral neuropathy manifests in the form of pain or numbness in the limbs and appendages.
• Autonomic neuropathy on the other hand is more internal. This condition causes indigestion and bowel and bladder dysfunction. It is also known to alter sexual response.
• Autonomic neuropathy affects important nerves that run to and from the heart, lungs and eyes. If left untreated, autonomic neuropathy results in hypoglycemia. This is a condition wherein neglect leads to low blood glucose level that is not even felt.
• Proximal neuropathy is another kind of neuropathy that results from the onset of diabetes. In this condition, the patient feels a sharp pain in the thighs and hips. This invariably leads to weakness in the legs.
• Focal neuropathy refers to damage of a single nerve strain or a group of nerves. The sudden weakness causes muscle pain in any part of the body. However, it should be noted that the manifestation of the pain is sudden and prevention is better than cure.

Diabetic neuropathy is the result of neglect and oversight. It is a condition that does not even announce its arrival. The onset of diabetes, when diagnosed in time, should be addressed and taken care of immediately. There are a number of online and offline resources that are designed to educate people on the causes and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. These are easily accessible. Getting educated on the condition is the best way to work on it.