iabetic nerve damage (also called
diabetic neuropathy) is a problem
for many people with diabetes. Over time, high
blood glucose levels damage the delicate coating of nerves. This damage
can cause many problems, such as pain in your feet. There's a lot you
can do to take charge and prevent nerve damage. A recent study shows that
controlling your
blood glucose
can help prevent or delay these problems. Controlling your blood glucose
may also help reduce the pain from some types of nerve damage.
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Some Signs of Diabetic Nerve Damage
Having trouble telling your glucose is low may be a sign of nerve
damage. |
Some signs of diabetic nerve damage are pain, burning, tingling, or loss
of feeling in the feet and hands. It can cause you to sweat abnormally,
make it hard for you to tell when your blood glucose is low, and make
you feel light-headed when you stand up.
Nerve damage can lead to other problems. Some people develop problems
swallowing and keeping food down. Nerve damage can also cause bowel problems,
make it hard to urinate, cause dribbling with urination, and lead to bladder
and kidney infections. Many people with nerve damage have trouble having
sex. For example, men can have trouble keeping their penis erect, a problem
called impotence (erectile dysfunction).
If you have any of these problems, tell your health care provider. There
are ways to help in many cases.
Tell
your health care provider if you have trouble with sexual function.
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Protecting Your Nerves
From Damage
Keep Your Blood Glucose in Control
High blood glucose can damage your nerves as time goes by. Work with
your health care team to keep your glucose levels as close to normal as
you can.
Have a Physical Activity Plan
Physical activity or exercise may help keep some nerves healthy, such
as those in your feet. Ask your health care team about an activity that
is healthy for you.
Get Tested for Nerve Damage
At least once a year, your health care provider should do a complete
check of your feet and
nerves. |
Nerve damage can happen slowly. You may not even be aware you're losing
feeling in your feet. Ask your health care provider to check your feet
at each visit. At least once a year, your provider should test how well
you can sense temperature, pinprick, vibration, and position in your feet.
If you have signs of nerve damage, your provider may want to do more tests.
Testing can help your provider know what is wrong and how to treat it.
Keep track of your foot exams.
For more information on foot care, call the National Diabetes Information
Clearinghouse at 1-800-860-8747.
Check Your Feet for Changes
If you've lost feeling in your feet, you'll need to take special care
of them. Check your feet each day. Wear shoes that fit well. You'll read
more about foot care in the next chapter.
From the
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Division of Diabetes Translation
http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/tcyd/nerve.htm
September 11, 2003
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