Expert Answers (2)
07/02/09
06:29 PM
Dear pnwbunny, When diabetes is not well controlled, the chance that you can develop a condition called neuropahy is higher. Your diabetes is not controlled very well as indicated by your high A1C value of 13.2. Neuropathy is very difficult to treat and very seldom do the symtoms go away. There are other causes of numbness in the fingers. You might want to have a doctor conduct nerve velocity tests. For instance, carpal tunnel syndrome causes numb fingers and the tests can diagnose this condition. Carpal tunnel can be cured by surgery. So, while you could be developing damage from your elevated blood sugars, you won't know for sure unless someone runs some tests and rules out other causes of the numbness. You need to discuss this with your physician. While you are talking with your provider, also request some assistance in matching your insulin doses to your meals. You are not doing very well if you have such an elevated average blood sugar number. I encourage you to make an appointment very soon and start working with your doctor and a diabetes education team to get your diabetes under control. I wish you success!
Answered By:
Janice Fisher
Accreditations: RD, LD, PHD, CDE, BC-ADM
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07/02/09
06:40 PM
Hello PnwBunny; Thanks for asking dLife. The lab results you describe, A1C 13.2%, is significantly above the recommended, <7%. Data suggest, you reduce the risks of neuropathy complication by 40-50% for every 1% you reduce A1C. Diagnosis of neuropathies are done by your (P)personal (C)care (P)physician, Endocrinologist or Podiatrist (DPM). There are 3 potential spots that neuropathy can occur. The nerves that serve the sensory, (hands and feet) , motor nerves to muscles and autonomic nerves of the involuntary activities of the GI system and other organs. Diabetes impacts the entire body, hence the need for keen self-management components. To prevent of lessen nerve damage. Keep blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, always <140mg/dl(AACE). When the blood sugars get too high, it fuels a pathway in the cells that build sugar that damage nerves. If you smoke, please stop. If you drink, do so in moderation. Keep blood pressure under 130/85mmHG. Keep cholesterols levels under 200mg/dl. Keep yearly checkups with your doctor, there are several treatments and services available to you. Most insurances will cover consultations with your local hospitals' "(C)certified (D)diabetes (E)educators", RNCDE, RDCDE, RphCDE and other healthcare team members. Call on dLife as needed. Be your best. Regards Sue for you!!
Answered By:
Susan Throop
Accreditations: RD, CDE, MA
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