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Diabetic neuropathyAlternative namesNerve damage - diabeticDefinitionDiabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus in which nerves are damaged as a result of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels).Causes, incidence, and risk factorsPeople with diabetes commonly develop temporary or permanent damage to nerve tissue. Nerve injuries are caused by decreased blood flow and high blood-sugar levels , and are more likely to develop if blood-glucose levels are poorly controlled.
Some diabetics will not develop nerve damage, while others may develop this condition relatively early. On average, the onset of symptoms occurs 10 to 20 years after diabetes has been diagnosed. Approximately 50% of people with diabetes will eventually develop nerve damage.
Autonomic neuropathies affect the nerves that regulate involuntary vital functions, including the heart muscle, smooth muscles and glands. Low blood pressure , diarrhea, constipation, sexual impotence , and other symptoms can be caused by autonomic neuropathies. Symptoms
Note: Symptoms vary depending on the nerve(s) affected and may include symptoms other than those listed. Symptoms usually develop gradually over years. Signs and testsPhysical examination , including neurological and sensory tests, may reveal many neuropathies. A common early finding is the absence of ankle reflexes. TreatmentThe goals of treating diabetic neuropathy are to prevent progression and reduce the symptoms of the disease. Tight control of glucose is important to prevent progression. To reduce the symptoms, topical treatment with Capsaicin or oral medication like amitriptyline, gabapentin, and carbamazepine have been used successfully. Analgesics (pain medications) are rarely of much benefit in the treatment of painful neuropathy. Regular foot exams are important to identify small infections and prevent progression. If foot injuries go unnoticed for too long, amputation may be required.Expectations (prognosis)The mechanisms of diabetic neuropathy are poorly understood. At present, treatment alleviates pain and can control some associated symptoms, but the process is generally progressive. ComplicationsThere is an increased risk of injury to the feet because of loss of sensation. Small infections can progress to ulceration (skin and soft tissue breakdown) and require amputation. In addition, motor nerve damage can lead to muscle breakdown and imbalance. Calling your health care providerCall your health care provider if signs and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy develop. PreventionIt is clear now that tight control of blood sugar level (Hemoglobin A1C < 7.0) prevents the development of neuropathy in 60% of type 1 diabetics and decreases the severity of symptoms. In addition, regular foot care can prevent a small infection from progressing. Update Date: 4/19/2004Nancy J. Rennert, M.D., Endocrinology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. |
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