Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)

Nerves are connected to blood vessels. As blood vessels become damaged from uncontrolled (high) blood glucose levels or high blood pressure, blood vessels that supply blood to the nerves become damaged. Hence, the nerves become damaged from reduced or non-existent blood supply. This is a primary cause of diabetic neuropathy.

60 to 70% of people with diabetes have a mild to severe form of nervous system damage. This includes impaired sensation or pain in the feet or hands, slowed digestion of in the stomach (conditions: gastric stasis and gastroparesis). Both of these conditions make diabetes management and blood glucose control more difficult. Additional complications include carpal tunnel syndrome and other nerve problems.

There are several types of diabetic nerve damage or neuropathy which are described in the book:

• Peripheral neuropathy
• Autonomic neuropathy
• Focal neuropathy

Blood glucose control is important in preventing or delaying diabetic neuropathy or preventing existing neuropathy from getting worse.