One of the hazards of diabetes is the number of complications that elevated blood sugar levels can cause. Chief among these is the effect of high blood sugar on the cardiovascular system. Diabetics, especially those with poorly controlled blood sugar, are at greater risk of developing a number of conditions, including peripheral artery disease, a common cause of leg pain for diabetics.
Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease causes poor circulation throughout the legs as a result of narrowing of the arteries. For diabetics, this condition can cause leg pain.
Symptoms
Peripheral artery disease can cause burning, aching or cramping in one or both legs. The symptoms typically occur while walking or during exercise and generally do not occur while at rest. Peripheral artery disease often progresses, which means that the symptoms get worse over time.
Causes
Peripheral artery disease is caused by narrowing and hardening of the arteries, also known as atherosclerosis. Diabetics are more likely to develop atherosclerosis because their high blood sugar levels (and high cholesterol levels) make it easier for them to develop "plaques." These plaques form in the walls of arteries, causing the arterial walls to bulge and make the arteries narrower and less pliable.
Treatment
Proper hydration (i.e., drinking lots of fluids) and stretching before exercise can help prevent leg cramps as a result of peripheral artery disease. Diabetics with this condition should avoid walking for long periods of time and instead allow time to rest while walking. Symptoms also can be relieved by avoiding tight-fitting shoes and by not placing hot or cold objects on the legs.
Prevention
Because peripheral artery disease can get worse over time, prevention is important. Diabetics should maintain good control over their blood sugar and eat a healthy diet that's low in fat and cholesterol. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco are also key aspects of prevention.
