Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that can result in numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands, feet, and legs. It is a common complication of diabetes mellitus, the most common cause of diabetic complications. Diabetic neuropathy Baltimore occurs when nerves begin to die due to high blood sugar levels. The resulting pain and tingling in your hands, feet, and arms can make it difficult to do daily activities such as cooking and bathing.
Diabetic neuropathy can occur at any age, but it has been more common among older people with diabetes for many years. There are several causes of diabetic neuropathy. Some of these include:
High blood sugar level
The most common cause of diabetic neuropathy is high blood sugar levels over time. High blood sugar levels cause the body’s cells to become insulin-resistant, which means that the cells no longer respond typically to insulin. When this happens, the pancreas produces more insulin than usual and sends it into the bloodstream. However, some cells in the body don’t respond well to the extra insulin, so they also become resistant to it. As a result, these cells cannot take up glucose from your blood or use it for energy.
Injury to the nerve
Nerve damage due to a minor injury or trauma to the body (such as from a bump or fall) may result in permanent nerve damage and subsequent development of diabetic neuropathy. Therefore, taking precautions when walking and moving about is vital, so you don’t injure your feet.
Lack of folic acid or vitamin B12
Another cause of diabetic neuropathy is a lack of vitamin B12 or folic acid in your diet. Vitamin B12 helps maintain healthy nerve function by helping produce energy in your body’s cells; folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects during pregnancy by avoiding anemia (lack of red blood cells). If you have diabetes or another condition that affects how much vitamin B12 you get into your system (such as pernicious anemia), taking supplements may help improve nerve function and reduce the risk of developing diabetic neuropathy.
Vascular disease
Diabetes can damage your blood vessels, making them more prone to problems such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and peripheral vascular disease (a type of blockage in smaller blood vessels). These conditions can lead to pain and numbness in your feet and legs.
Kidney failure
As your kidneys fail, they can no longer filter waste products out of your body as they should, which may also damage your nerves.
The severity and type of symptoms you may experience if diabetic neuropathy depends on how much nerve damage there is in your arms, feet, and legs. You may experience numbness, tingling, burning, or pain while walking or standing for long periods or even when resting or sleeping at night. You may also experience weakness in your hands or feet that make it difficult to hold or use objects such as utensils or walkers. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may already be suffering from this condition. Call or visit CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center to learn more about diabetic neuropathy and available treatment options from a doctor.