Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve disease or nerve damage that is caused by diabetes (diabetes mellitus). This is a common complication of diabetes. There are several types of diabetic neuropathy:
Peripheral neuropathy—This is the most common type of diabetic neuropathy. It causes damage to nerves that carry signals between the spinal cord and other parts of the body (peripheral nerves). This usually affects nerves in the feet and legs first, and then eventually the hands and arms. The damage affects the ability to sense touch.
Autonomic neuropathy—This type causes damage to nerves that control involuntary functions (autonomic nerves). These nerves carry signals that control:
Heartbeat.
Body temperature.
Blood pressure.
Urination.
Digestion.
Sweating. …show more content…
Poor appetite.
Diarrhea or constipation.
Trouble swallowing.
Losing weight without trying to.
Problems with the heart, blood and lungs, such as:
Dizziness, especially when standing up.
Fainting.
Shortness of breath.
Irregular heartbeat.
Bladder problems, such as:
Trouble starting or stopping urination.
Leaking urine.
Trouble emptying the bladder.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Problems with other body functions, such as:
Sweat. You may sweat too much or too little.
Temperature. You might get hot easily. Or, you might feel cold more than usual.
Sexual function. Men may not be able to maintain an erection. Women may have vaginal dryness.
Focal neuropathy
Symptoms affect only one area of the body. Common symptoms include:
Numbness.
Tingling.
Burning pain.
Prickling feeling.
Very sensitive skin.
Weakness.
Inability to move (paralysis).
Muscle twitching.
Muscles getting smaller (wasting).
Poor coordination.
Radiculoplexus neuropathy
Sudden, severe pain in your hip, thigh, or buttocks. Pain may spread from the back into the legs (sciatica).
Pain and numbness in the arms and legs.
Tingling.
Loss of bladder control or bowel control.
Weakness and wasting of thigh