We are all familiar with the fact that diabetes is a serious disease that can be life threatening. What we sometimes forget, is that diabetes contributes to the cause of additional diseases and disorders.

One common disorder that is a possible complication that may arise as a result of diabetes is diabetic neuropathy. This condition will come about as a result of injuries to the blood vessels.

Someone with diabetes, whose nerves are already damaged as a result of having high sugar or glucose levels, can expect neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy can develop as peripheral, proximal, or focal neuropathy.

Peripheral Neuropathy

This type of neuropathy will cause a diabetic to experience lesser, or even a loss of sensation in their feet and legs. For a diabetic with pre-existing foot problems, this numbness, or loss of sensation in the feet will only complicate an ordinary foot problem should this complication go unnoticed and untreated.

Autonomic Neuropathy

This type of diabetic neuropathy can manifest itself as stomach bloating, diarrhea, or other problems within the digestive system. Additional problems may also affect the diabetics urinary system as well as, in the case of a male, his sex organs.

The erectile dysfunction that a male diabetic may experience is not necessarily a result of diabetes, but more probably by the medication he is taking. In this situation, it is strongly recommended that the diabetic male consult with his doctors to receive proper counseling, treatment, and possibly even surgery.

A women diabetic can also suffer from this type of neuropathy. In her case, the neuropathy will manifest itself as a dryness of the vagina. This situation is easily treated through the use of creams, or an additional intake of estrogen.

Focal Neuropathy

A diabetic suffering fom this type of diabetic neuropathy may experience eye pain, double vision, or even facial paralysis. While focal neuropathy itself can be painful, it does not contribute to additional long term injuries.

It is estimated that nearly half of the people suffering with diabetes will get diabetic neuropathy. This is simple fact, and there is no getting away from it. However, diabetics who are prone to diabetic neuropathy, can by monitoring their blood sugar level successfully manage any resulting conditions.

People with a family history of diabetes should already know that they need to see their doctors regularly to have their blood sugar levels checked. The importance of regular check ups, to detect diabetes, or to manage an already existing condition, can not be overstated. The regular consultations will also help to reduce the chances of getting diabetic neuropathy.

If you are someone who's family history makes you particularly prone to getting diabetes be sure to avoid the factors that can increase the risk of getting the disease. Some of these factors are smoking, high blood pressure, and too much alcohol intake.

For those already suffering with diabetes, be certain to take regular care of your feet to help prevent complications that may arise from diabetic neuropathy. There are specialized shoes and socks available that are recommended for diabetics to help avoid foot complications.

Diabetes is a manageable disease, provided the person with diabetes imposes self discipline. A strong determination to stick to a proper diet and exercise program will go a long way to helping diabetics avoid diabetic neuropathy.

If you are already afflicted with neuropathy, be sure to take better care of yourself, and regularly monitor your blood sugar levels to avoid the complications arising from neuropathy.

By Carl DiNello

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