If you are currently living with diabetes, it’s important that you know the dangers of neuropathy.
Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur if you have diabetes. High blood sugar can injure nerve fibers throughout your body, but diabetic neuropathy most often damages nerves in your legs and feet.
This condition can manifest in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics. In Type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce the insulin necessary to convert glucose into the energy that the body needs. Type 2 diabetes, which is far more common, occurs when the body is unable to use insulin properly.
It has been estimated that between 60 to 70 percent of diabetics will deal with some form of neuropathy in their lifetime, compared to only a 25 to 30 percent chance for non-diabetics.
There are four main types of neuropathy seen in people with diabetes. The most common form is peripheral neuropathy, or damage to the nerves that reach out from the brain and spine to all the parts of the body.
The symptoms of diabetic neuropathy can range from pain and numbness in your extremities to problems with your digestive system, urinary tract, blood vessels and heart.
Other potential complications of diabetic neuropathy include:
The Dangers of Diabetic Neuropathy
Amputation: People with peripheral neuropathy of the lower body may not feel an injury to one of their feet, or may not feel a sore, which can become severely infected. The risk of infection is high because diabetes reduces blood flow to your feet. Infections that spread to the bone and cause tissue death (gangrene) may be impossible to treat and require amputation.
Urinary problems: Damage to the nerves that control your bladder can prevent it from emptying completely. This allows bacteria to multiply in your bladder and kidneys, leading to urinary tract infections.
Low blood pressure: Damage to the nerves that control circulation can affect your body’s ability to adjust blood pressure. This can cause a sharp drop in pressure when you stand after sitting and can result in dizziness and fainting.
Digestive problems: Nerve damage in the digestive system can cause a wide variety of problems, including constipation, diarrhea and nausea. It can also cause gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach empties too slowly or not at all.
At Delray Beach Podiatry, Dr. Ian S. Goldbaum, a podiatric physician and surgeon with over 30 years of experience, specializes in treating patients suffering from diabetic neuropathy with state-of-the-art technology and specialized treatment plans.
According to Dr. Goldbaum, the most common symptoms of neuropathy found in the feet of his patients are cramping sensations, numbing sensations, tightening, tingling or burning, and an overall decrease in sensation. A change in how the toes feel sensations often also signals that something might be wrong.
Other symptoms may also include:
- Muscle atrophy
- Loss of coordination
- Loss of reflexes
- Feeling that you are wearing socks or gloves when you are not
- Difficulty walking or moving your arms or legs
- Muscle twitching
- Skin, hair or nail changes.
- Inability to detect changes in heat and cold
If you believe you are suffering from any of these symptoms, you should seek out your health care provider as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chance for controlling your symptoms and preventing further damage.
As of this moment, diabetes is the leading cause of amputation in the United States. For that reason, it is important that people suffering from diabetic neuropathy consult a podiatrist to learn how to take special care of their feet.
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The content on this website is for informational purposes only. Do not rely or act upon information from www.DelrayBeachPodiatry.com without seeking professional medical advice. If you live in South Florida and would like a consultation with Dr. Ian Goldbaum, a podiatric physician and surgeon with over 30 years of experience, please see our contact information below:
BOCA/DELRAY
16244 S. Military Trail #290, Delray Beach, FL 33484
561-499-0033
BOYNTON BEACH
8198 Jog Road #100, Boynton Beach, FL 33472
561-499-0033
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