Nerve damage associated with diabetes, or diabetic neuropathy, results from excess blood sugar in the circulatory system. High levels of glucose injure and weaken vessels attached to the body's nerves. Symptoms related to neuropathy depend on the location of the affected nerves. The National Institute of Neurological Disorder and Stroke reports the most common sign of neuropathy results in foot sensory loss. The goal of treatment is to prevent symptoms from progressing and to reduce current symptoms. Though treatment controls some symptoms, the condition generally worsens over time.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy, or sensorimotor neuropathy, causes tingling, numbing and sensory loss in the extremities. A diabetic feels as if his bare hands or feet are covered with gloves and socks. Extremities feel extremely hot or cold. The feet and hands first experience symptoms; symptoms then gradually move upward. The longer a person has had diabetes and the older she is, the greater the risk of being diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy. Managing pain and protecting a diabetic patient's feet is a goal of treatment, suggests the American Diabetes Association. Complications of peripheral neuropathy include formation of diabetic foot ulcers, severe foot infections and possible amputation.
Autonomic Neuropathy
Autonomic neuropathy affects organs such as the bladder, genitals and stomach. Bladder paralysis is common. The bladder no longer senses being full. A person with diabetes may not feel the urge to urinate and keep urine in his body for longer periods of time, resulting in urinary tract infections. Men suffering from autonomic neuropathy experience erectile dysfunction. The nerves controlling sexual arousal begin to fail. The American Diabetes Association points out that sexual desire is not affected. Nerve damage appears in the digestive tract as well. The stomach may not move food through the digestive system, and vomiting and bloating can occur. The condition, known as gastroparesis, changes food absorption rates. Neuropathy in the small intestine causes constipation or diarrhea. Diarrhea often occurs in the evening or night hours, reports the American Diabetes Association. MayoClinic.com notes that autonomic neuropathy is more likely in diabetics who have had poor control over their blood sugar for many years.
Radiculoplexus Neuropathy
Nerves close to the hips and shoulders are affected by radiculoplexus neuropathy, explains MayoClinic.com. The condition is referred to by several names, including diabetic amyotrophy and proximal neuropathy. Symptoms commonly appear on one side of the body, but may spread to the other side. Older adults and people with type 2 diabetes are more commonly diagnosed with radiculoplexus neuropathy. Symptoms of the condition include weight loss, difficulty standing up, weak thigh muscles and pain in the thighs. Partial improvement is seen over time in many cases, according to MayoClinic.com.
