Diabetes It is a lifestyle disorder that requires many lifestyle adjustments, including discipline regarding diet and fitness, lest it lead to other health problems, often of a complementary nature. It’s important for diabetics to be aware of something called “peripheral neuropathy,” which is a diabetes-related health complication, as well as kidney problemsvascular and heart diseases.
What is peripheral neuropathy?
Dr. Sachin Pawar, director of Procter & Gamble Health’s medical affairs group-India explains that peripheral neuropathy is the result of damaged peripheral nerves that cause a tingling sensation and numbness in the hands and feet.
“Our peripheral nerves fulfill different motor, sensory and autonomic functions in our body. When peripheral neuropathy is not detected and treated at an early stage, it can have long-term consequences such as chronic pain, loss of sensation, and irreversible pain. nerve damage affecting quality of life,” he states, adding that according to studies, nearly 50 percent of adults with diabetes are likely to be affected by peripheral neuropathy in their lifetime.
Symptoms
According to the doctor, the clinical observations of this condition differ from person to person. “While some are asymptomatic, others experience acute painful neuropathic symptoms,” he says.
Dr. Pawar adds that the most common symptoms experienced are Tingling sensationa numb, burning, and tingling sensation in the hands and feet, and that diabetic peripheral neuropathy “can lead to foot ulcers, making regular screening and treatment imperative.”
When peripheral neuropathy is not detected and treated early, it can have long-term consequences, including chronic pain. (Photo: Getty/Thinkstock)
“The painful symptoms experienced frequently result in clinical manifestations such as anxiety, depression, reduced quality of life and sleep disorders that are often misinterpreted and disrupt quality of life. Even the symptoms of neuropathy are missed,” she states.
Peripheral neuropathy in diabetics
According to Dr. Pawar, studies done in the past suggest that up to 50 percent of patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy are asymptomatic, so the condition remains “undiagnosed and leads to insensible lesions.”
Why timely diagnosis is important
“Early intervention is the key to improving patient care and reducing health care costs. Spreading awareness about this condition is the need of the hour since the symptoms are often not taken seriously by patients”, says the doctor. He adds that monitoring symptoms, seeking medical attention early, and regular screening can cure the condition, without letting it reach the “irreversible stage.”
“Neurotropic B vitamins have been effective for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy, as they have the potential to delay the onset of symptoms and improve nerve function. These vitamins play an important role in repairing damaged nerves,” explains Dr. Pawar.
He suggests seeing a doctor to better understand the condition, as well as keeping a close eye on our lifestyle: food intake, regular physical activity.
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