What You Need to Know About Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetes is a chronic disease that often causes complications. One of them is diabetic neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that affects the legs and feet, as well as the arms and hands.

Some symptoms of diabetic neuropathy include numbness, a tingling or burning feeling, sharp pains or cramps, or in more severe cases, problems with the digestive system, urinary tract, blood vessels, and the heart.¹

Up to 50% of diabetics will develop diabetic neuropathy, making it one of the most common complications of this disease.²

Causes and Effects of Diabetic Neuropathy

Chronically high blood sugar levels cause nerve damage. And when nerves get damaged, it is harder for them to transmit messages between the brain and other parts of the body. This is often why those with nerve damage may feel numbness to temperature changes, or even to cuts and sores.

What makes nerve damage hard to notice is that it develops differently in each person. Some feel numbness, while others may notice tingling or slight pain. It also develops slowly over the years, so some people don’t notice it until it becomes severe.²

These subtle signs may make some people ignore them, as they incorrectly assume it’s just part of the aging process.

Certain diabetes medications like Metformin may also cause vitamin B deficiency, which increases the risk of diabetic neuropathy.³

Preventing Diabetic Neuropathy

Lifestyle changes are the biggest contributor to lessening the risk of developing diabetic neuropathy. These include eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and regular exercise.

Blood sugar management is also recommended, as it helps lower the risk of nerve damage due to chronically high blood sugar levels.

Foot care is also crucial, as this is the area where diabetic neuropathy often develops first. So if you’re living with diabetes, take extra care of your feet. Examine them everyday, and look out for blisters, cuts, or bruises, as well as redness, swelling, and cracked or peeling skin.⁴

You should also keep your feet clean and dry. Wash them with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly, especially before putting on socks. Cushioned shoes that fit perfectly are also advised, as they allow your toes to move.

Conclusion

Diabetic Neuropathy is a complication that while common, can be prevented or managed. By developing good eating and exercise habits, and adequate B-vitamin supplementation, you can help promote good nerve health.

Try Vitamins B1 + B6 + B12 (Supraneuron®) along with proper diet and exercise to help lower your risk of nerve damage.

You can find Vitamins B1 + B6 + B12 (Supraneuron®) in drugstores nationwide, and online via Lazada and Shopee. Shop now!

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.