Neuropathy (Nerve Damage) and Diabetes

The reason diabetes causes nerve damage (neuropathy) is not known but is most likely due to long-term high blood glucose. There are two types of neuropathy: peripheral and autonomic.

Peripheral neuropathy
The areas of the body most commonly affected by peripheral neuropathy are the feet and legs. Nerve damage in the feet can result in a loss of foot sensation, increasing your risk of foot calluses, injury or chance of infection. Therefore, you should practice proper skin and foot care. The arms, abdomen and back may rarely be affected.

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Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy

• Tingling
• Numbness
• Burning
• Pain

Treatment and prevention

• Look at your feet and legs daily.
• Apply lotion if your feet are dry.
• Care for your nails regularly. (Go to a podiatrist if necessary).
• Wear properly-fitting footwear.

In most cases, early symptoms will decrease when blood glucose is under control. Severe or long-term numbness can become permanent.

Autonomic neuropathy
Autonomic neuropathy most often affects the digestive system, blood vessels, urinary system and sex organs.

Digestive system symptoms

• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Feeling full after small meal

Treatment

• Eat smaller meals
• Medications

Prevention
To prevent autonomic neuropathy, you need to continuously keep your blood glucose levels at an acceptable range.

Blood vessels (Low blood pressure) symptoms

• Blacking out when you stand up quickly
• Increased heart rate
• Dizziness
• Low blood pressure

Treatments

• Avoid standing up quickly
• Medications
• Wearing special stockings

Male sex organ symptoms*

• Unable to have or maintain an erection
• "Dry" or reduced ejaculations

Treatments

• Counseling
• Penile implant
• External erection maintenance device
• Penile injections
• Medication

*Impotence needs to be evaluated by your doctor. It can be caused by medications or factors other than diabetes.

Female sex organ symptoms

• Decrease in vaginal lubrication
• Decrease in number of orgasms or lack of orgasm

Treatments

• Counseling
• Estrogen
• Vaginal creams
• Lubricants

Urinary system symptoms

• Unable to completely empty bladder
• Bloating
• Incontinence (leaking urine)
• Increased urination at night

Treatments

• Medications
• Self-catheterization
• Surgery

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