Diabetic neuropathy

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Central nervous system

Diabetes and nerve damage

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, in which nerves are damaged as a result of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels).

Nerve damage - diabetic

People with diabetes commonly develop temporary or permanent damage to nerve tissue. Nerve injuries are caused by decreased blood flow and high blood-sugar levels, and are more likely to develop if blood-sugar levels are not controlled well.

Some people with diabetes will not develop nerve damage, while others may develop this condition relatively early. On average, the beginning of symptoms occurs 10 to 20 years after diabetes has been diagnosed. Approximately 50% of people with diabetes will eventually develop nerve damage.

Peripheral nerve injuries may affect cranial nerves or nerves from the spinal column and their branches. This type of neuropathy (nerve injury) tends to develop in stages. Early on, intermittent pain and tingling is noted in the extremities, particularly the feet. In later stages, the pain is more intense and constant. Finally, a painless neuropathy develops when pain sensation is lost to an area. This greatly increases the risk of severe tissue injury because pain no longer alerts the person to injury.

Autonomic neuropathies affect the nerves that regulate vital functions, including the heart muscle and smooth muscles. Low blood pressure, diarrhea, constipation, sexual impotence, and other symptoms can be caused by autonomic neuropathies.

Review Date: 05/12/2006
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, MD, Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.