According to the National Diabetic Information Clearinghouse, 60 to 70 percent of diabetics have a form of neuropathy, or nerve damage. Diabetics who are at the highest rate for diabetic nerve damage have had diabetes for at least 25 years, and have problems controlling their levels of blood glucose. Other factors that put a person at risk for diabetic nerve damage are high levels of blood fat and high blood pressure, as well as being overweight.
Sensation
Changes in sensation can indicate diabetic nerve damage. Numbness, tingling or pain can occur in the patient's toes, feet, legs, hands, arms and fingers. During the changes in sensation, patients might find it difficult to use the limb affected. According to the American Diabetes Association, these symptoms are sensorimotor neuropathy, or peripheral neuropathy.
Weakness
Weakness in the muscles can also occur from damage to the nerve. Patients will find using the affected limb difficult, and their daily activity may be impacted. As diabetic nerve damage becomes progressively worse, wasting of the muscles in the hands and feet can happen.
Sickness
Feeling ill often is another sign of diabetic nerve damage. When the patient stands up, the resulting drop in blood pressure can result in dizziness or faintness. Gastrointestinal symptoms, like diarrhea and constipation, can also occur. Other symptoms of diabetic nerve damage include indigestion, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms may come and go, but patients may feel sick more often.
Sexual Problems
Both male and female sufferers of diabetic nerve damage can have sexual problems. In men, diabetic nerve damage can result in erectile dysfunction. In women, diabetic nerve damage can result in vaginal dryness. These symptoms may require medication to treat if they interfere with the patient's life.
