What is Diabetic Neuropathy?
One of the most serious side effects of having diabetes is the damage it does to the nerves. Often the nerves that register painful sensations are damaged, causing serious complications. This condition is known as diabetic neuropathy. It can happen several different ways, but all variations are directly related to the glucose level (blood sugar) being too high for too long. Although there are numerous different types of diseases that can result from diabetes, including ones that keep the body from regulating the amount of sugar in the blood, diabetic neuropathy specifically involves damage to the nerves that cause sensations.
The Four Types of Diabetic Neuropathy
Four types of diabetic neuropathy exist: peripheral, autonomic, proximal, and focal. The different types may cause different signs and symptoms. For example, peripheral diabetic neuropathy causes pain, numbness, tingling and burning. Autonomic diabetic neuropathy damages the digestive system, urinary system, and sexual function. Proximal diabetic neuropathy results in pain specifically in the hips, buttocks, or thighs. Focal diabetic neuropathy affects the muscles in the head, torso, or leg, causing pain.
Some other general symptoms that may be experienced depending on the affected area include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, bloating, low blood pressure, increased heart rate, blacking out when standing up too quickly, incontinence, erectile dysfunction, reduced or dry ejaculations, decreased vaginal lubrication, decrease in number or lack of orgasms, frequent urination at night and difficulty emptying the bladder.
Any of these conditions can cause the person with this illness to become debilitated, especially if the symptoms become severe. If you or a loved one has any type of diabetic neuropathy, you may be eligible for long-term disability benefits, which may provide wage replacement coverage for time missed from work. If you would like more information about applying for these benefits, call disability lawyer Nick Ortiz at (888) 321-8131.
