Blood sugar levels are used as a benchmark to evaluate diabetes. However a hidden but progressive menace lurks beneath those figures and it is called Diabetic Neuropathy. It is reported that more than half of all diabetics suffer from this condition which is nothing but a nerve injury. It is not just an annoyance. It may be severe, incapacitating and transformative. Prevention and early intervention begin with an understanding of Diabetic Neuropathy.
What Exactly Is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Nerve damage brought on by persistently elevated blood sugar levels is known as diabetic neuropathy. Over a period of time, high blood sugar damages nerves all over the body. It may be noted that it affects the legs and feet mostly. A report says that 36% of all diabetics are affected by Neuropathic conditions. The illness is far more common in underdeveloped countries. In India, the number is more than 39%. A local study conducted in Chennai reported that 51% of diabetic individuals between the ages of 45 and 60 already had peripheral neuropathy. This underscores the important need for screening and awareness.
The Four Main Types of Diabetic Neuropathy
There is more than one type of Diabetic Neuropathy. It can appear in four different ways. Each of it affects a different area of the neurological system:
- Peripheral Neuropathy: This is the most prevalent type. It first affects the legs and feet before moving on to the hands and arms. Numbness, tingling, scorching pain, muscle weakness and high touch sensitivity are among the symptoms. Minor injuries become serious when there is loss of sensation in the feet because they can develop into ulcers and amputations without anybody noticing.
- Autonomic Neuropathy: Nerves that regulate involuntary body processes like digestion, blood pressure, heart rate, bladder function and sexual response are harmed by this type of neuropathy. Gastroparesis (slow stomach emptying that causes nausea and vomiting), orthostatic hypotension (dizziness while standing), bladder issues and sexual dysfunction are some of the symptoms in this type. Hypoglycemia unawareness or the absence of warning signs of low blood sugar (like shakiness and sweating) results due to this condition and are considered severe.
- Proximal Neuropathy: This condition is also known as diabetic polyradiculopathy. It affects nerves in the legs, thighs, hips, or buttocks. It mostly affects one side of the body. It results in excruciating pain in the thigh, hip, or buttocks, followed by muscular atrophy and weakness that makes getting up from a sitting posture challenging.
- Mononeuropathy: In this type one particular nerve is harmed. This can have an impact on the arm, leg, chest or face. Symptoms may vary depending on which nerve is affected. The symptoms are double vision, foot drop (difficulty elevating the front part of the foot), hand numbness or facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy).
The Domino Effect of Complications
Diabetic neuropathy can lead to major health problems. Loss of feeling in the feet can result in infections and sores that go unnoticed. This can get complicated and can lead to amputations. Urinary tract infections, digestive issues and abrupt dips in blood pressure can all be brought on by autonomic neuropathy. It not only lowers the quality of life but the neuropathic pain raises healthcare expenses. Research indicates that approximately 47% of people with DPN have painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy, with risk factors including obesity, older age, female gender and longer diabetes duration.
Preventing and Treating Diabetic Neuropathy: Hope Is Not Lost
There is no recognized treatment for diabetic neuropathy. Its advancement can however be delayed. Tight blood sugar control is the cornerstone of prevention. Strict glucose control can lower the risk of neuropathy in people with type 1 diabetes by as much as 78%. Multifactorial therapies, such as nutrition, exercise and lifestyle modifications, are important for people with type 2 diabetes. All patients with type 2 diabetes should undergo yearly screening beginning at diagnosis. For those with type 1 diabetes they should go as per the doctors advice.
Pain Management Strategies:
- As a first-line, certain medications are prescribed for neuropathic pain
- Topical treatments like capsaicin cream may offer relief
- Opioids are generally not recommended due to addiction risks
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week
- Maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
- Quit smoking and keep blood pressure under control
Daily Self-Inspection of Feet
Daily foot self-inspection is an easy, life-saving practice. Every night before going to bed, use a handheld mirror to thoroughly inspect both feet. Pay close attention to the spaces between toes and beneath the soles. You can involve your spouse or any family member for assistance. Keep an eye for any wounds, blisters, swelling, redness or changes to your nails. You might not notice a little injury because of the numbness that is generally associated with Neuropathy conditions. These injuries can easily become infected since neuropathy causes numbness. Do not delay to notify your doctor of any anomaly. This five-minute practice is the cornerstone of diabetic foot care. When you avoid ulcers that start small you can obviously avoid complications that can lead to amputations.
The good news is that screening is simple and available. Many leading hospitals across Chennai offer annual diabetic foot exams, monofilament testing and nerve conduction studies. If you have diabetes, effective management of diabetes is the key to maintaining good health. Early detection is your best defense against this silent epidemic.