4 Common Signs Of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetes is a complicated disease that can cause complications in various parts of the body. It is not uncommon for people with diabetes to experience problems with their feet and lower legs at a much higher rate than the rest of the population, which is why a person with diabetes should have regular check ups with a foot doctor. Diabetics often experience nerve damage in their feet due to high blood sugar, which is called diabetic peripheral neuropathy. If you have diabetes, it is important to know the symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy so you can see your foot doctor for treatment.

Numbness

One of the most common symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy is feeling numbness in one or both feet. The numbness can come on quickly, even while doing activities while walking. Prior to or after feeling numbness in your feet, you may experience a tingling or burning sensation in your feet. Never ignore these common signs of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Losing Your Balance

When you have numbness in your feet and lower legs, it can be very difficult to walk properly, and you may begin to lose your balance frequently. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can also affect your ankles, which can make it hard to walk normally even if you can feel your feet. If you are unsteady or are losing your balance while standing or walking, make an appointment with your podiatrist. Orthopedic shoes can often help the issue and make it easier to get around without losing your balance.

Ulcers, Sores, or Blisters on Feet

Nerve damage from diabetic peripheral neuropathy can cause ulcers to form on the feet. Numbness and lack of feeling in the feet can also lead to diabetics developing sores or blisters without realizing it. If you have diabetes, it is important to inspect your feet carefully on a regular basis for signs of ulcers, sores, or blisters. Make sure that you see a foot doctor-- ulcers, sores, and blisters need to be treated in order to prevent infections in the feet.

Pain at Night

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy often causes a person to feel pain in their feet and lower legs at night. Even a light sheet draped over the body can cause a person to feel pain. If you are experiencing foot pain at night and have diabetes, immediately schedule an appointment for a foot doctor , such as at Bazzi Podiatry, so he or she can help you control diabetic peripheral neuropathy.