1. Nerve Damage Determines Diabetic Neuropathy Symptoms
Neuropathy is common in people who have diabetes, although it is unclear what the cause is. People who have had diabetes for 25 years or longer are more likely to develop neuropathy, as are those who struggle with their glucose levels. The result is nerve damage, which often causes symptoms, although some people have no symptoms. The nerves involved determine diabetic neuropathy symptoms.
2. Peripheral Neuropathy Common With Diabetes
Peripheral neuropathy of the sensory nerves causes pain and/or numbness that can change over time. Neuropathy in feet is common in people with diabetes. A person might feel electric shocks, stabbing or pinching sensations, as well as numbness and tingling. Often, the symptoms become worse at night. Abnormal sensations upon touching an object can occur such as a loss of sensation as though a person is wearing a sock when he is not. Changes can occur in a person's gait with neuropathy of the sensory nerves due to loss of coordination. In an effort to retain balance, people will drag their feet or widen their walking stance.
3. Autonomic Neuropathy Controls the Uncontrollable
Autonomic peripheral nerves serve to regulate involuntary bodily functions. The nerves damaged with autonomic neuropathy can affect blood pressure, lungs or the eyes. Changes can occur in bowel and bladder function, perspiration or sexual responses. The type of diabetic neuropathy can cause changes in perception so that a person with diabetes does not recognize the symptoms of low blood glucose. If you have any unusual changes, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem, talk to your doctor.
4. Proximal Neuropathy Affects Coordination
Proximal neuropathy involves the peripheral motor nerves. These nerves are responsible for movement. Diabetic neuropathy symptoms of this type may cause pain in the buttocks, thighs or hips. The pain is usually in the form of muscle spasms. Muscle weakness of the legs is possible, too. Some people report feeling a heaviness in their legs, making running, walking or climbing stairs difficult. Proximal neuropathy can also affect the hands, making tasks such as opening jars or doors, carrying and grooming hard. Some individuals complain of dropping things without warning.
5. Focal Neuropathy Comes on Fast
The onset of focal neuropathy is usually sudden and affects one particular nerve or group of nerves. The diabetic neuropathy symptoms of this type often affect the head, legs or torso. Pain anywhere in the torso or leg is possible, but the front of the thigh is common. This neuropathy can also affect the eyes with double vision, pain or an inability to focus one eye.
