Diabetic neuropathy

Definition

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, in which nerves are damaged as a result of high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).

Alternative Names

Nerve damage - diabetic; autonomic neuropathy; peripheral neuropathy; gastroparesis

Causes

People with diabetes commonly develop temporary or permanent damage to nerve tissue. Nerve injuries are caused by decreased blood flow and high blood sugar levels, and are more likely to develop if blood sugar levels are not well controlled.

Some people with diabetes will not develop nerve damage, while others may develop this condition early. On average, symptoms begin 10 to 20 years after the diabetes diagnosis. Approximately 50% of people with diabetes will eventually develop nerve damage.

Peripheral nerve injuries may affect nerves in the skull (cranial nerves) or nerves from the spinal column and their branches. This type of nerve injury (neuropathy) tends to develop in stages.

Autonomic neuropathies affect the nerves that regulate vital functions, including the heart muscle and smooth muscles.

References

Vinik AI. Diabetic neuropathies. Med Clin North Am. 2004; 88(4): 947-99.

Vardi M, Nini A. Phosphodiesterase inhibitors for erectile dysfunction in patients with diabetes mellitus. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007; Jan 24(1):CD002187.

Wong MC, Chung JW, Wong TK. Effects of treatments for symptoms of painful diabetic neuropathy: systematic review. BMJ. 2007; 335:87.

Hunt D. American Diabetes Association (ADA). Standards of medical care in diabetes--2008. Diabetes Care. 2008;31:S12-S54.