What are the Causes of Diabetic Neuropathy?
- Neha Gupta
- Jun 17, 2019
- 1 min read
Diabetic neuropathy is a serious and common complication of type-1 and type-2 diabetes. It’s a type of nerve damage caused by long-term high blood sugar levels. The condition usually develops slowly, sometimes over the course of several decades.
If you have diabetes and notice numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in your hands or feet, you should see your doctor. These are early symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. The danger is usually when you can’t feel pain and an ulcer develops on your foot.
In cases of severe or prolonged peripheral neuropathy, you may be vulnerable to injuries or infections. In serious cases, poor wound healing or infection can lead to amputation.
There are different types of diabetic neuropathy that affect different areas of your body, causing a variety of symptoms.
Following are the causes of diabetic neuropathy:
Diabetic neuropathy is caused by high blood sugar levels sustained over a long period of time. Other factors can lead to nerve damage, such as:
1. Damage to the blood vessels caused by high cholesterol levels.
2. Mechanical injuries, such as injuries caused by carpal tunnel syndrome.
3. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking or alcohol use.
Low levels of vitamin B-12 can also lead to neuropathy. Metformin, a common medication used to manage diabetes, can decrease levels of vitamin B-12. You can ask your doctor for a simple blood test to identify any vitamin deficiencies.
For more information visit the best neurologist in India.
Comments