What is diabetic neuropathy?

• Sensory neuropathy: Damage to the nerves that detect touch and temperature - commonly affects the feet and hands.
• Motor neuropathy: Damage to the nerves that help in muscle movement.
• Autonomic neuropathy: Damage to the nerves that control involuntary actions of the body such as digestion.

What are the signs of diabetic neuropathy?

• Numbness, especially in the extremities, i.e., toes, fingers
• Tingling sensation
• Pain in the body
• Weakness in the limbs
• Difficulties with walking, balance, and coordination
• Loss of muscle mass in the feet, legs, hands, and hips

Who is more likely to get diabetic neuropathy?

• Poorly controlled diabetes
• Weight issues
• High blood pressure
• Age above 40 years
• High levels of triglycerides
• Habits such as smoking and consuming alcohol
• Chronic liver or kidney disease
• Vitamin B deficiency
• Prolonged diabetes (living with diabetes for a long period of time)
• Other diseases and anti-cancer drugs
• Coronary heart disease or other heart condition.

Can diabetic neuropathy be prevented?

• Adhere to the medications prescribed by the doctor
• Follow healthy eating habits and consume whole, nutritious food
• Limit the consumption of high-fat and high-calorie processed foods
• Reduce salt consumption to keep blood pressure in the normal range
• Take up some form of moderate-intensity exercise such as brisk walking, riding a bicycle or swimming to stay physically active
• Quit smoking to reduce the risk of neuropathy
• Significantly reduce the consumption of alcohol.

• Examine the feet every day for any red spots, cuts, swellings or blisters
• Nails of the feet should be cut and trimmed carefully
• Pat dry the feet after bathing and moisturize them later
• Wear well-fitted shoes and wear thick, soft, seamless socks along with them.

Takeaway