What are the causes and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy?
The exact cause of diabetic neuropathy is not known. Researchers believe that the process of nerve damage is related to high glucose concentrations in the blood that could cause chemical changes in nerves, disrupting their ability to effectively send messages. High blood glucose is also known to damage the blood vessels that carry oxygen and other nutrients to the nerves. In addition, some people may have a genetic predisposition to develop neuropathy. There is a wide range of symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy, and they depend on which nerves and parts of the body are affected and also on the type of neuropathy present. Some patients have very mild symptoms, while others are severely disabled. Common symptoms of diffuse peripheral neuropathy include: • numbness and feelings of tingling or burning • insensitivity to pain • needle-like jabs of pain • extreme sensitivity to touch • loss of balance and coordination Common symptoms of diffuse autonomic neuropathy include: • impai
