Diabetic Neuropathic Pain

Diabetic neuropathies are neuropathic disorders that are associated with diabetes mellitus. These conditions are thought to result from diabetic microvascular injury involving small blood vessels that supply nerves (vasa nervorum) in addition to macrovascular conditions that can culminate in diabetic neuropathy. Relatively common conditions which may be associated with diabetic neuropathy include pain in the feet that is commonly described as burning and pain in the hands.  Sometimes diabetic neuropathy can lead to damage of the large nerves causing dysfunction.

Diabetic neuropathy affects all peripheral nerves including pain fibers, motor neurons and the autonomic nervous system. It therefore can affect all organs and systems, as all are innervated. There are several distinct syndromes based upon the organ systems and members affected, but these are by no means exclusive. A patient can have sensorimotor and autonomic neuropathy or any other combination. Symptoms vary depending on the nerve(s) affected and may include symptoms other than those listed. Symptoms usually develop gradually over years.

SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE

Pain or numbness or tingling of extremities
Burning or electric pain
Abnormal sensation to a body part (Dysesthesia)
Diarrhea
Erectile dysfunction
Facial, mouth and eyelid drooping
Vision changes
Dizziness
Muscle weakness
Difficulty swallowing