There is a link associated between diabetes and numbness in feet and hands. Diabetes is actually a very common cause of most peripheral neuropathy conditions. The diabetic neuropathy is one type that is developed due to diabetes. This greatly affects the nerves of the body. Below are more information about diabetes, particularly diabetic neuropathies, and the symptom numbness.
What is a diabetic neuropathy?
A person with diabetes is at great risk of developing nerve damages most parts or throughout his body. A diabetic neuropathy is a nerve disorder due to diabetes. This can happen over time. It starts with high levels of blood glucose in the body. It is actually a combination of many factors. These include metabolic, neurovascular, inherited traits to nerve disease, injury in nerves, and bad habits.
The percentage of patients of diabetes that can potentially neuropathy is about 60 to 70%, and mostly those who are suffering from diabetes for more than 20 years. This is because the level of blood sugar keeps on rising at the point of becoming uncontrollable.
What are the signs of a diabetic neuropathy?
Since nerves are affected, the obvious symptom of this condition is numbness or tingling of some parts of the body, such as the hands, arms, legs, feet, and toes. There is also pain if there is no numbness at all.
There are other symptoms of this health condition other than numbness and pain. Other organs and parts of the body are affected as well. One of which is digestive problems, such as constipation and diarrhea. A patient also suffers from indigestion with vomiting or nausea. Problems with the urinary tract infection and urination also develop. At most times, he will feel dizziness and faintness, especially when temperature is terribly unbearable.
What happens if there is numbness in hands and feet?
A tingling feeling in hands, feet, or both is a common symptom if you have diabetes. This can be either temporary or benign. It can also be chronic, severe, or episodic. Sometimes, it is accompanied by other signs as well, which include itchiness, pain, or muscle wasting.
Once you feel numbness, do not take it lightly as maybe only a mild case. If you still have it for a few days, it is better to see a professional physician. You may already have diabetes or diabetic neuropathy. There are necessary precautions and solutions to do in order to avoid having your nerves fully damaged. Plus, diabetes is a very serious condition that needs medical attention as soon as possible.