Neuropathy usually appears within the first ten years of diabetes. This kind of slow-growing nerve damage is also referred to as diabetic neuropathy. This implies that a person may have diabetes for several years before developing neuropathy.

Any kind of damage to the nerve system brought on by elevated blood sugar levels is referred to as diabetic neuropathy.

Diabetic neuropathy comes in four primary forms:

• Peripheral neuropathy: This kind, which involves nerve injury outside of the brain and spinal cord, is frequently the most prevalent. Usually, it affects the feet and legs.
• Autonomic neuropathy: This includes harm to the nerves that regulate important internal functions like your sex organs and heart.
• Focal neuropathies: This describes an injury to a single nerve, which frequently happens in the hand or torso.
• Proximal neuropathy: The hips, buttocks, and thighs may be affected by this severe and uncommon nerve injury.

What can cause diabetic neuropathy?

High blood sugar and fat levels over time might lead to diabetic neuropathy. This may harm the blood vessels that supply the nerves, causing pain and numbness throughout the body, especially in the legs and feet.

Physical injuries like falls or auto accidents can also be the reason.

What is the life expectancy of someone with diabetic neuropathy?

According to research, neuropathy and diabetes can shorten life expectancy by about 11 years. Nevertheless, several variables may influence this, including:

• Age: Those who are older are more likely to experience difficulties from diabetic neuropathy.
• Duration: Life expectancy may be impacted by the severity of your diabetes and how long you’ve had it.
• Overall health: The risk of complications and death can also be raised by having other long-term medical issues.

Learn more about the stages of diabetic neuropathy and what to anticipate at each one.