Diabetic Neuropathy: Early Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Protecting your nerves from long-term sugar damage
Over time, chronically high blood sugar levels can damage the delicate nerve fibers in your body. This condition, known as Diabetic Neuropathy, most commonly affects the nerves in your legs and feet.
Early Warning Signs
Neuropathy rarely happens overnight. It begins subtly. Look out for:
- Tingling or "pins and needles" sensations in your toes.
- A burning sensation in your feet, especially at night.
- Numbness, or a reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes.
- Sharp, shooting pains or cramps in your calves.
The Danger of Numbness
While burning pain is uncomfortable, numbness is actually more dangerous. If your feet are numb, you might step on a sharp object or develop a shoe blister without feeling it. Because diabetes also restricts blood flow, this unnoticed wound can quickly become infected, leading to diabetic foot ulcers.
Prevention is the Best Cure
The progression of neuropathy can be halted, and early symptoms can be reversed, by maintaining strict blood sugar control (keeping HbA1c below 7%). Additionally, examine your feet every night before bed.