When you have diabetes, the glucose levels in the blood could become dangerously high because of insufficient insulin or insulin resistance. If left untreated, these increased blood sugar levels can result in neuropathy, which is the technical term for nerve damage. A huge percentage of people with diabetes will suffer from diabetic neuropathy Baltimore at some point in their lives. The complications resulting from neuropathy are incredibly intense and can even result in amputation, so monitoring the early warning signs of nerve damage is crucial. Read on to learn what you should watch out for.
1. Numbness
Numbness is perhaps the most common warning sign. Diabetic neuropathy leads to numbness in the limbs and other body parts. You might be unable to feel your hands or feet when walking. Therefore, if you feel numb for no apparent reason, consult a specialist immediately.
2. Sharp Pain
Unless you sustained an injury, it is not normal to experience shooting pain. For people living with diabetes, sharp pain could be a sign of diabetic neuropathy. Often, this discomfort is accompanied by cramping. The pain feels like an electric current that shakes the body from head to toe.
3. Loss of Reflexes
Diabetic neuropathy impacts the nerve pathways responsible for processing external stimuli. As such, you might experience loss of reflexes, particularly in the ankle. Most patients report not feeling their arms, toes, feet, and hands.
This health concern can affect one or more nerves. Some individuals lose their ability to feel the heat, pain, cold, or even pick out an injury.
4. Foot Deformities
Foot deformities are another common symptom of diabetic neuropathy that causes changes in foot shape. Diabetes can damage the blood vessels, particularly in the feet. As a result, the ankle and foot bones become weaker, resulting in fractures, infections, and ulcers.
In the initial stages, diabetics experience foot swelling. Some people might also notice some redness. If left untreated, these symptoms worsen and cause serious injury. The best way to avoid foot deformities is to inspect your legs and feet daily. Moreover, avoid prolonged sitting and wear comfortable shoes.
5. Digestive Distress
There are numerous forms of diabetic neuropathy, and each has varying symptoms based on the affected organ. For instance, diabetic autonomic neuropathy tends to affect the digestive system. Typical symptoms include bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
You might also have trouble swallowing and feel full after consuming small meals, and urinary incontinence. Since these symptoms are not specific, they frequently go misdiagnosed. Regular checks could be potentially life-saving.
6. Vision Changes
Diabetic focal neuropathy causes damage to the facial and eye nerves. People struggling with this health concern often experience eye discomfort or blurry vision.
Without prompt care, you may even lose your eyesight. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist immediately.
7. Sexual problems
Diabetes could affect your sex life as well. Numerous patients experience vaginal dryness, difficulty reaching orgasms, and erectile dysfunction. Unfortunately, many people hardly speak about their issues, which makes things worse. If you have diabetes associated with sexual issues, consult your physician.
Neuropathy is one of the most common diabetes complications. Whether you are experiencing any of the symptoms highlighted above, or have recently been diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to see a specialist for close monitoring. Luckily, most risk factors of this condition are modifiable. Your provider may recommend simple lifestyle modifications like limiting sugary foods, quitting smoking, regular exercising, and more. However, if your neuropathy already affects your health, your doctor may suggest more aggressive therapy. Do not hesitate to discuss your unique symptoms for a more accurate diagnosis and tailored care plan.