Neuropathy can be caused by a variety of disorders, but the most common contributor is diabetes mellitus. According to the Mayo Clinic, most cases of neuropathy are related to diabetes. Neuropathy affects the nerves that control involuntary responses in the body. It may also affect nerves in the extremities and cause tingling and numbness. The Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine recommends that persons with diabetes be tested for neuropathy within the first couple of years after being diagnosed.
Digestion
The digestive system functions using both voluntary and involuntary nerves. In the early stages, neuropathy may affect a person's ability to swallow. It will also begin to affect the body's ability to digest and assimilate food. In the early stages of neuropathy, digestion may be slowed and the movement of the food through the digestive tract may become sluggish causing heartburn and nausea. As the digestive process begins to slow, a feeling of fullness may be present, even if little has been eaten.
Because of the decrease in movement in the digestive tract and bowel, constipation is common in diabetics with neuropathy.
Cardiovascular Problems
Neuropathy that affects the cardiovascular system can cause rapid or irregular heart beat, chest pain and hypertension. It may also cause heart attacks. Neuropathy can affect the heart's ability to function properly during stress and exercise. Tightness in the chest can indicate that exercising or putting stress on the heart and surrounding tissues may not be advisable.
Neuropathy can also inhibit the circulation of blood through the body, causing damage to the brain as well as tissues in the extremities. Poor blood flow in the legs and feet may eventually lead to amputation.
Numbness in the Extremities
Damage to the nerves in the extremities may also occur. Neuropathy can affect nerves in the peripheral nervous system as well as the central nervous system. Tingling, numbness and pain may be present in the beginning stages of autonomic neuropathy. As time passes, these symptoms may become severe and may cause discomfort when walking or exercising.
If the neuropathy is caused by diabetes, strictly controlling the glucose levels in the blood and managing the disease properly can slow down the detioration in the nerves. According to the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, it is possible that neuropathy may be reversed if it is caught early enough and other issues are kept under control.
Genital and Urinary Tract Issues
Neuropathy that affects the genitals and urinary tract may cause incontinence, erectile dysfunction and the inability to reach orgasm during sex. In women, decreased lubrication in the vagina may make sexual intercourse uncomfortable and painful.
According to the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, about 50% of diabetic men and 35% of diabetic women experience issues with sexual function due to neuropathy. Early signs may include rigidity and impotence.
