Damage to the nerves from high blood sugar levels is called diabetic neuropathy. There are four main types of diabetic neuropathy, each characterized by specific symptoms and area of the body affected. Numbness and tingling sensations that affect mainly the hands and feet are considered peripheral neuropathy. Autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves controlling organs such as the heart, bladder, stomach, sex organs and eyes. Proximal neuropathy describes nerve damage to areas near the thighs, hips, buttocks or legs. The fourth type, mononeuropathy occurs when there is damage to a specific nerve, usually found in the face, torso or leg.
Key Takeaways:
- Peripheral neurapathy is a type of diabetic neurapathy that affects the extremities.
- Symptoms can include sensations of burning, tingling and stabbing pain, as well as reduced ability to feel and possibly ulceration, or infection on the feet.
- Other forms of diabetic neurapathy affect the nerve edges, the bladder, cardiac region, lungs, gastrointestinal area, the reproductive system and the eyes.
“Most types of diabetic neuropathy develop gradually, and you may not notice problems until considerable damage has occurred.”
