Diabetic Neuropathy: Things you Should Know | FFD

Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that develops when high blood sugar levels remain uncontrolled for a long time, damaging the nerves. Since nerves are very sensitive, the first signs usually start in the legs and feet. People may feel tingling, burning, numbness, or pain in these areas. In severe cases, the condition can also affect the digestive system, bladder, heart, eyes, and overall circulation.

More than half of people with diabetes experience some form of neuropathy. For some, the symptoms are mild, but for others, the pain and discomfort can seriously affect daily life. The positive side is that with proper management through diet, exercise, stress control, and healthy lifestyle changes, the condition can be slowed down and sometimes even reversed.

There are four main types of diabetic neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is the most common, affecting the feet, legs, hands, and arms. It causes pins and needles, cramps, pain, and even ulcers on the feet. Autonomic neuropathy affects the involuntary nerves that control organs like the stomach, bladder, heart, and eyes, leading to digestion issues, sexual health problems, and vision difficulties. Proximal neuropathy, also called diabetic amyotrophy, causes severe pain and weakness in the thighs, hips, and buttocks, often starting on one side of the body. Mononeuropathy, or focal neuropathy, targets a single nerve, often around the eyes or face, leading to double vision, facial paralysis, or weakness in the hands.

The best treatment for diabetic neuropathy is keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range. Regular check-ups, proper diet, exercise, and weight control can help ease symptoms. In many cases, early treatment and consistent lifestyle changes can reduce nerve damage and even improve existing symptoms.

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