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Diabetes and Neuropathy
Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition in which the amount of glucose or sugar in the blood gets excessively high as the body is unable to process it. Glucose is obtained from foods and drinks that we consume and is utilized by the body to produce energy. Pancreas is the organ responsible for producing insulin, a hormone that regulates carbohydrate metabolism. If insulin is not produced enough or at all, it may lead to diabetes.
Neuropathy
The immense network of nerves that send and receive information from the brain and spinal cord to and from all parts of the body is known as the peripheral nervous system or neuropathy. Damage to these nerves can lead to a variety of problems including interference with the messages sent and received. Neuropathy can have a number of causes and the most common one is diabetes. Diabetes is the cause in most cases of neuropathy.
Complications of Diabetes
If left untreated or without proper care, diabetes can cause severe complications including heart disease, blindness, kidney disorders as well as diabetic neuropathy. Due to diabetes, a number of nerves in the body can be affected leading to pain and numbness. Various parts of the body may also be affected.
Diabetes and Neuropathy
Damage caused due to diabetes in the nerves is known as diabetic neuropathy. Symptoms may include numbness and pain in the hands, feet or legs. It may also lead to problems in the internal organs. However, diabetic neuropathy can be treated with proper care.
Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy
In addition to these symptoms, neuropathy may affect many parts of the body and show symptoms that resemble those of indigestion, diarrhea, dizziness, weakness and weight loss.
• Numbness and weakness in different body parts
• Twitching of muscles
• Difficulty breathing
• Organ dysfunction
• Tingling, burning or prickling in body parts
• Sensitivity to touch
• Loss of balance and coordination
Causes of Diabetic Neuropathy
High blood glucose levels cause chemical changes in the nerves and impair the nerves’ ability to transmit signals. Blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the nerves are also damaged and may cause diabetic neuropathy.
It may also be caused by inherited traits like diabetes and non production of insulin by the body.
Treatment for Diabetes and Neuropathy
Diabetes can be cured by injecting the patient with insulin which helps in regulating carbohydrate metabolism. Oral medications are available to treat diabetes. The course of treatment is determined by the patient’s general condition and other factors.
Treatment for neuropathy can include medications which aim at treating specific symptoms. Neuropathy can be well treated if diabetes is controlled and all the risk factors of neuropathy are eliminated. Regular consultation with a physician is important also.
Diabetes can affect different organs and the nervous system of the body. It is necessary to make sure that your blood glucose level does not exceed the normal limits as severe complications including damage to the nerves may occur if it does.
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