Symptoms of Diabetic Neurology

Neuropathy, or nerve damage, is a long-term complication of diabetes that can cause various symptoms, depending on which nerves are affected.

Expert Insight

• Diabetic neuropathy can manifest as digestive disorders, muscle weakness, bowel or bladder problems, heart disorders, high blood pressure and sexual dysfunction, according to Dr.Robert H. Phillips, author of "Coping With Diabetes."

Peripheral Neuropathy

• Neuropathy involving the lower limbs can cause loss of sensation in legs and feet, leg pain upon exercising or at night and chronically cold feet. Visible symptoms include shiny, hairless skin on lower legs and feet and bruises, sores and swelling on the feet.

Autonomic Neuropathy

• Neuropathy affecting the autonomic nervous system can cause gastrointestinal symptoms of heartburn, nausea and vomiting, as well as dizziness and urinary problems.

Focal Symptoms

• Focal neuropathy affects specific nerves (usually in the torso, legs or head) with symptoms of localized pain, difficulty focusing eyes, paralysis on one side of the face and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Prevention/Solution

• Blood sugar control is the key to minimizing the effects of diabetic neuropathy; avoiding alcohol and tobacco use are also important as these are known to negatively affect the nervous system.