Diabetic neuropathy is a condition caused by long-term high blood sugar levels. These elevated levels cause nerve damage, and oftentimes that damage is housed in our feet. This can be problematic because nerve damage makes it harder for individuals to realize they are dealing with an open wound on their feet. Since blood supply to the area is already inhibited, unattended wounds can lead to infection and even the need to amputate a foot.
Diabetic Neuropathy Symptoms
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, between 60 and 70 percent of people with diabetes will experience some form of neuropathy. Controlling your glucose levels is key to preventing diabetic neuropathy, but you should also keep an eye out for these common symptoms that suggest you may be dealing with nerve damage in your feet. Talk to your foot specialist or primary care doctor if you are experiencing:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Burning
- Shooting pain
- Loss of balance
- Muscle weakness
- Soreness
- Regular coldness in the feet
- Visual deformity (from altered gait due to nerve damage)
One of the biggest issues facing diabetics with the beginning stages of neuropathy is that the problem doesn’t seem all that severe when it’s at the earliest stage. For example, mild numbness or more recurrent tingling sensations isn’t going to be something that knocks you off your feet. You’re still going to be able to go about your day, and many times people do just that. However, if they don’t take tangible steps to correct the issue while the problem is in its infancy, symptoms are only going to worsen and the issue will get harder to successfully treat. You’re going to wish that you treated your mild numbness after it progresses to constant pain.
Treating Diabetic Neuropathy Symptoms
Treating diabetic neuropathy symptoms goes beyond simply controlling your blood sugar levels, although this does play a significant role in preventing further damage. Some common treatment options alongside proper blood sugar management include:
- Regular exercise.
- Eating a healthy diet and working towards an ideal weight.
- Giving up smoking.
- Limiting your alcohol intake.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, or you are a diabetic and want to work to prevent diabetic neuropathy, consider syncing up with a foot specialist like Dr. Silverman.