Peripheral neuropathy is the term for damage to nerves outside the central nervous system. It can occur in the brain and spinal cord. Numbness, tingling, sensitivity to touch, and muscle weakness are the less severe symptoms to cope with. More extreme symptoms include burning pain, paralysis, or organ and gland issues that can result in the later stages of nerve damage.

Acquired peripheral neuropathy is caused by diseases affecting the auto-immune system, which then affect nerve tissue. This disorder is common in diabetics, usually resulting in nerve pain in the toes, feet, legs, hands, and arms. No medical treatments can cure peripheral neuropathy, however, there are treatments to reduce the severity. Maintaining acceptable weight, following an exercise program recommended by a physician, eating a balanced diet, and limiting or avoiding alcoholic beverages can reduce the effects of peripheral neuropathy.

Chronic neuropathy may worsen over time, but very few forms are fatal unless complicated by other diseases. Current research projects are studying diabetes-associated neuropathy, and how the immune system may make peripheral nerve damage more severe. Sixty-to-seventy percent of diabetics have some form of neuropathy. Diabetes can develop nerve problems at any time, but risk seems to increase with age and longer duration of the disease.

Highest rates of neuropathy are among people who have had diabetes for at least 25 years. The nerve pain seems to be more common in diabetics who have problems controlling blood sugar levels, and those with high levels of blood fat and blood pressure, as well as those who are overweight. Life-style factors, such as smoking or alcohol use may contribute to nerve damage. Mild cases may go unnoticed for a long time. As the damage gets more severe, so do the symptoms.

Diabetes is on the rise in North America and around the world. Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes, and many more are unaware they are at high risk. There are two types of diabetes. With Type one, the body does not produce any insulin and the cause of this type is currently unknown.

Type Two diabetes is a result of the body not producing enough insulin or the cells ignoring the insulin, often due to over-weight issues. It is important to visit a doctor as soon as you show symptoms of diabetes such as dehydration, frequent urination, and general weakness. A blood glucose test is a simple method for checking the amount of sugar in your blood. Your doctor can do this test and give you immediate results and consultation.

Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. Insulin breaks down sugars and starches from food into glucose which is the basic fuel for cells in the body. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can lead to diabetes complications, including diabetic neuropathy among others. If the body does not get enough insulin, medical treatment is essential, so get checked out and take special care of your feet.