What connections exist between diabetes and nerve damage?
July 3, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Jonas Schmitt
Dear Doctor,
My name is Johann Heck and I have been suffering from diabetes for some time now. I am very concerned as I have been experiencing increased symptoms of nerve damage lately. For example, I have numbness in my feet and hands, as well as strong pains that radiate to my legs and arms. I also have difficulties with motor skills and I notice that my movements feel more sluggish.
I am aware that diabetes can lead to nerve damage in the long term, but I do not fully understand how these connections work. Could you please explain to me how diabetes can cause nerve damage and what mechanisms are involved? Are there ways to treat or at least slow down these nerve damages? Should I be worried that the symptoms will worsen and what measures could I take to protect my nerves?
I would greatly appreciate it if you could help me and provide me with information on how to manage my nerve damage and what steps I should take to improve my quality of life.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Johann Heck
Dear Johann Heck,
I am sorry to hear that you are experiencing symptoms of nerve damage related to diabetes. Diabetes is a condition where the blood sugar level is permanently elevated, which can lead to long-term damage to the nerves known as diabetic neuropathy. There are various mechanisms that can result in diabetes causing nerve damage.
One of the main reasons for nerve damage in diabetes is chronic hyperglycemia, or the persistently elevated blood sugar level. This can lead to damage to the blood vessels that supply the nerves with oxygen and nutrients, resulting in nerve damage and impaired function. Additionally, high blood sugar levels can directly damage nerve cells and trigger an inflammatory reaction that can also damage the nerves.
The symptoms of diabetic neuropathy can vary and range from numbness to pain to motor problems. It is important that you take these symptoms seriously and seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of nerve damage and alleviate symptoms.
There are various treatment options for diabetic neuropathy that should be tailored to individual symptoms and severity of the condition. This may include pain relief medications, physiotherapy to improve motor skills, and blood sugar control. It is important that you adhere to your diabetes therapy consistently to reduce the risk of nerve damage.
I understand your concerns about worsening symptoms. It is important to have regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor the progression of nerve damage and take appropriate measures. Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding risk factors like smoking can help protect your nerves and improve your quality of life.
I strongly recommend scheduling an appointment with a neurologist or diabetologist to evaluate your symptoms and develop an individualized treatment strategy. With early diagnosis and appropriate measures, it is possible to slow the progression of nerve damage and alleviate your symptoms.
I wish you all the best on your journey to recovery and am available for any further questions you may have.
Best regards,
Jonas Schmitt
