Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a progressive disease that often involves pain, loss of sensation and weakness. DPN is a condition caused by high blood sugar and about 60-70% of diabetic patients are known to suffer from it. If not treated in time or managed well, it can lead to lower limb amputations. Here are some common symptoms patients may experience.
Pain
Neuropathy patients can suffer from a range of acute to chronic pain. Moreover, depending on the damage to the nerves, each patient may experience a different kind of pain. For instance, some patients experience sharp pain spurts that might feel like an electric current. These may affect your day to day activities and prevent you from being well-rested. These symptoms can develop suddenly or over a longer period of time. They may also be distributed unevenly between the different sides of your body. Lastly, you can experience any of multiple types of pain that are listed below.
- Jarring pain
- Cramps
- Pinching pain
- Shooting pains
Sensitivity
Damage in the nerves can either heighten or dramatically reduce your sensitivity. For instance, patients experience numbness, tingling or burning sensations in their hands and toes. Patients describe the feeling of numbness analogous to wearing a glove or a sock. Diabetic patients should wear proper footwear and examine their feet every night to detect small bruises that can go unnoticed due to the lack of sensation.
Balance
Muscle damage can also make the body uncoordinated. For instance, patients feel unsteady and uncoordinated while walking. Numbness can make patients prone to falls as they are unaware of stance and placement of legs. Loss of balance and an unsteady gait is often a sign of DPN. Orthopedic shoes and mechanical aids for walking are common solutions to prevent such falls.
Symptoms appear as common aging symptoms and hence tend to go unnoticed. However, keep an eye out for such changes and consult your physician to diagnose the condition and start treating your symptoms. DPN can be challenging, but with early diagnosis and a proper treatment plan, you can effectively manage your pain.
WinSanTor is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of treatments for peripheral neuropathies. We believe in creating a solution that works and brings relief to millions that are struggling with this disease. Learn more about our company, our drug and subscribe to our newsletter.
Sources
- “Types of Peripheral Neuropathy & Risk Factors”. The Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy
- “Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Treatments, Symptoms & Causes”. WebMD
- “7 Symptoms of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy”. Healthline
- “Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms | Pain In Fingers, Toes, & Feet”. The Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy
- “Peripheral neuropathy – Symptoms and causes”. Mayo Clinic
