Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy

According to research published by the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, nearly 50 percent of adults with diabetes will develop a form of diabetic neuropathy, a chronic condition affecting the nerves. If you’re an older adult with diabetes, it’s essential to learn about diabetic neuropathy and discover ways to reduce your risk of developing the condition. 

What is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that develops in people with diabetes. There are four main types of diabetic neuropathy. 

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type of diabetic neuropathy. A person with peripheral neuropathy starts with nerve damage to the legs and feet. As the condition progresses, the individual develops nerve damage in the hands and arms. Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include numbness, tingling, burning, sharp pains, and increased sensitivity. Some people may also develop foot issues, such as ulcers and infections. 

Autonomic Neuropathy

Autonomic neuropathy is nerve damage to the autonomic nervous system, which controls the heart, bladder, stomach, eyes, and sex organs. Signs and symptoms of autonomic neuropathy include bladder or bowel complications, gastroparesis, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, and changes in how the eyes respond to light. 

Proximal Neuropathy

Proximal neuropathy is nerve damage to the thighs, hips, legs, and glutes. It generally starts on one side of the body but can progress to both sides. Those with proximal neuropathy often experience pain or weakness in the thighs, legs, or glutes. They may also have stomach pain and trouble moving from a sitting position. 

Mononeuropathy

Mononeuropathy is the damage to a specific nerve. If left untreated, mononeuropathy can lead to double vision, pain behind one eye, paralysis on one side of the face, tingling in the hands and fingers, and weakness of the hands. 

Diagnosing and Treating Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy requires a medical diagnosis. Doctors can diagnose diabetic neuropathy with a physical exam of your muscle strength, tendon reflexes, and sensitivity to touch. Your doctor may also perform additional tests to identify specific diabetic neuropathy.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for diabetic neuropathy, but treatments are available to slow the progression and manage symptoms. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may suggest treatments to control your blood sugar levels or prescribe medications to relieve pain. You may also require treatment to tend to digestive or urinary tract complications. 

Preventing Diabetic Neuropathy

Medical professionals are still unsure of the exact cause of each type of diabetic neuropathy. Still, researchers know high blood sugar weakens the blood vessel walls that provide oxygen and nutrients to the nerves. 

Any person with diabetes is at risk of developing diabetic neuropathy, but steps to take to reduce your risk. 

• Control your blood sugar levels- Make sure you take proper care of your blood sugar levels and test them regularly. 
• Maintain a healthy weight- Overweight people have a higher risk of developing diabetic neuropathy. Maintain a healthy weight with regular exercise and nutritious meals. 
• Quit smoking- Smoking increases the risk of nerve damage by narrowing the arteries and making it more difficult for blood to flow to the legs and feet. If you’re having trouble quitting, talk to your doctor about treatment options. 
• Take care of your feet- Foot troubles are a common sign of diabetic neuropathy. Take care of your feet by checking them for sores, cuts, and blisters and notifying your doctor if you have a wound that won’t heal. Also, keep your feet clean, dry, and moisturized to minimize skin cracking and infection. 

How Visiting Angels Can Help 

If you or an aging loved one is living with diabetic neuropathy and needs assistance at home, the team at Visiting Angels can help. Our team of professional caregivers provides a variety of at-home care services such as light housekeeping, medication reminders, meal preparations, mobility assistance, personal grooming, and more. Our Horsham office serves those in Horsham, Hatboro, Willow Grove, Ambler, Lower Gwynedd, Spring House, and the surrounding areas. If you’d like to learn more about our services, you can call us at 215.938.7202 or complete this online form.