Diabetic Neuropathy

What is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a condition where there is damage to nerves, due to high blood glucose1. It develops in the extremities and it can cause serious complications like foot ulcers2.

It has been estimated that almost 1 in 10 people, aged 55+ are affected by neuropathy3.

What may cause Diabetic Neuropathy?

This is a chronic complication of diabetics. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and small blood vessels by decreasing their elasticity, causing them to narrow. As a result, the affected area does not get nutrients and damages the nerves to lose feeling3.

What are common symptoms?

Tingling and numbness in hands or feet
Loss of ability to feel pain and feel the temperature
Loss of coordination and balance
Myasthenia, Muscle weakness
Burning, shooting or stabbing pain in the affected area
Ulcers1

Can anything trigger the pain?

Symptoms can be worse over night
Temperature

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A patient's Experience

If you would like to share your story about Diabetic Neuropathy. Please contact us.

References

[1] - Diabetes UK. Diabetic Neuropathy [Internet]. England: Diabetes UK; N.D. Available from: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/complications/nerves_neuropathy#:~:text=Neuropathy%20is%20one%20of%20the,damaged%2C%20and%20they%20may%20disappear.

[2] - NHS England. Peripheral Neuropathy [Internet]. England: NHS England: 2022. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/complications/#:~:text=A%20diabetic%20foot%20ulcer%20is,caused%20by%20badly%20fitting%20shoes.

[3] - Hicks CW, Selvin E. Epidemiology of Peripheral Neuropathy and Lower Extremity Disease in Diabetes. Curr Diab Rep [Internet]. 2019; 19(10):86. Available from DOI: 10.1007/s11892-019-1212-8

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