Diabetic Neuropathy

Nearly 12% of people in the United States have diabetes, and up to 70% of diabetics could develop peripheral neuropathy. At Hill Country Wellness Journey in New Braunfels, Texas, family medicine physician Joel Massey, MD, diagnoses and manages diabetic neuropathy to avoid worsening nerve damage and other diabetes-related complications. Schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment by phone or online today.

What is diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage stemming from poorly controlled blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. A common type is peripheral neuropathy, which typically affects the feet. 

Neuropathy often causes numbness, tingling, and/or burning sensations. Diabetes isn’t curable, but early detection and treatment can help you avoid debilitating diabetes-related complications.

What are the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy symptoms can include:

• Numbness 
• Tingling
• Pins-and-needles sensation
• Burning, shooting, or stabbing pain
• Unusual touch sensations
• Slow-healing foot or leg sores (ulcers)
• Muscle weakness
• Not being able to feel pain when your feet are injured
• Digestive symptoms
• Urinary issues
• Sexual dysfunction
• Eye changes
• Sweating more or less than usual
• Cardiovascular system (heart) irregularities 

The symptoms of diabetic neuropathy usually develop over many years. 

What are the risk factors for diabetic neuropathy?

Consistently high blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels providing nutrients and oxygen to your nerves. Risk factors include:

• Uncontrolled blood sugar
• Diabetes diagnosis
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol (hyperlipidemia)
• High body mass index (BMI)
• Kidney disease
• Smoking
• Alcohol use disorder
• Genetics

A family history of diabetes-related neuropathy also increases your risk. A healthy lifestyle and consistent blood sugar control lower your chances of developing diabetic neuropathy. 

How is diabetic neuropathy diagnosed?

Dr. Massey discusses your symptoms, medications, and medical history to determine if you have diabetic neuropathy. He completes a physical exam, including a diabetic foot exam and nerve testing. You might also need blood work or additional diagnostic tests.

How is diabetic neuropathy treated?

Your personalized diabetic neuropathy treatment can consist of:

• Blood sugar management
• Medication
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Physical therapy
• Nutrition education
• Acupuncture
• Blood pressure management
• Weight management
• Diabetic shoes

It’s also helpful to avoid smoking and limit or avoid alcohol.

By achieving optimal blood sugar control, diabetic neuropathy symptoms can fade over time. However, severe neuropathy might not be reversible. 

The good news is that effective diabetes management reduces your risk of worsening symptoms. Follow up with Dr. Massey to manage diabetes and neuropathy long-term. 

Schedule a diabetic neuropathy evaluation at Hill Country Wellness Journey by calling the office or booking an in-person or telehealth appointment online today.