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The Question
09/10/09 05:56 PM

"Where does neuropathy begin? I have burning sensations on my arms and face, feet and toes and head. ANd my hamstrings seem to ache daily, "
Asked By: kblee2  
Category: Neuropathy

Background Info Hide
I have been diabetic for 20 years. My most recent A1C's have been 7-8. I have normal blood pressure. MRI came back normal. I am in relatively good health. My drs have two different opinions. My PC says it is neuropathy, my neurologist says it is not, based on the nerve conductivity test. It's just all a little bit confusing.

Expert Answers (1)

09/12/09 03:16 PM

Hello KBlee2; Neuropathy or nerve damage generally affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, or referred to as the peripheral nerves. There are 3 types of peripheral nerves: motor, sensory, and autonomic. Neuropathy can affect any one or part of these systems of nerve endings. A neuropathy of motor nerves impact voluntary movements, such as sitting, standing and walking. The damage can cause these muscles to weaken and makes these normal movements difficult. Sensory neuropathy is the feel and touch sensations, rough smooth, soft or hard. Sensory nerves are the pain receptors. Lastly, involves the autonomic nerve of involuntary activities, breathing, heart pumping, and the normal body functions of digestion.
  • Generally, the neuropathy progresses from the farthest point to the trunk of the body or distal meaning down, symmetrical meaning on both sides, and poly meaning more than one.

    Signs of nerve damage to hands, legs and feet would include:

  • coldness, numbness, tingling, burning, itching, prickling, deep aching, overly sensitive skin, electric shocking like sensation or jabs of a needle-like pain.

    This information should always be shared with your PCP/Endo. Frequently, the pain may worsen at night, and may improve if you get up and more around.

    Prevention and lessening of any additional damage is to optimize all the blood parameters of diabetes control. (You know the drill)!

  • Keep the glucose levels as close to normal as possible,<140mg/dl; A1C<7%
  • (When the sugars get too high they fuel a sugar alcohol pathway in the nerves which build up and impede normal nerve cell functions).
  • if you smoke, stop
  • drink less alcohol-if you indulge
  • Blood pressure to<130/80mmHG
  • Total cholesterol<200,HDL>40 for men>50 for women, LDL<100mg/dl,
  • start with the PCP as to discern any nerve damage, early detection, the better response to treatment. Call on dLife as needed. Be your best. Regards
    • Answered By: Susan Throop
    Accreditations: RD, CDE, MA
    Sources Show

    Community Answers (1)

    09/15/09 08:32 AM

    wow, I'm glad I read that. I have numbness in my toes and have had for almost 6 months now. My feet and hands get extremely cold. I didn't realize that it was part of the effect of diabetes. thanks for asking that question...
    Answered By: kaylie12
    FLAG
    SourcesShow



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    *** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.

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