4 Unique Types of Diabetic Nerve Pain

Yes, there is more than one!

Nerve pain can affect patients differently when living with diabetes. The signs may be prevalent in some, while others are difficult to diagnose or not that common.

Take a look at the following types of diabetic nerve pain and ask yourself if one of these best relates to your pain symptoms.

Peripheral Neuropathy

This is the most common type of diabetic nerve pain. Peripheral is defined as something that exists on the edge of an area. It’s fitting that it affects the feet, legs, hands and arms.

Symptoms (often felt at night) may include:

• Numbness
• Burning or tingling sensation
• Sensitivity to touch
• Loss of balance

Individuals experiencing peripheral neuropathy may have trouble waking or standing. This can lead to foot or ankle injuries. It’s important to check your feet daily for ulcers, sores or blisters.

Proximal Neuropathy

Proximal Neuropathy is known to cause muscle weakness. It affects the thighs, buttocks and hips. This particular type of diabetic nerve pain makes it difficult to stand up on one’s own. Pain can be felt from the lower back to the leg.

It typically affects elderly patients with type 2 diabetes. The most important thing to keep in mind is to maintain glucose levels for proper care.

Autonomic Neuropathy

Autonomic Neuropathy is caused by damage to the autonomic nerves. Autonomic nerves keep the body functioning. This includes digesting food, breathing, sweat glands, eye sight, etc. They are in charge of maintaining proper balance among our organ systems.

This particular diabetic nerve pain is difficult to control. The reason being is autonomic acts involuntary.

Symptoms will vary depending on the specific nerves damaged.

• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Trouble swallowing
• Difficulty controlling urination
• Trouble seeing in the dark

Focal Neuropathy

Focal Neuropathy is one of the less common types of diabetic neuropathy. It is often referred to as mononeuropathy. The reason being is it affects a single nerve or set of nerves typically in the head, upper body or legs. Focal Neuropathy may come unexpectedly without any warning.

However, symptoms may include:

• Isolated pain
• Double vision
• Difficulty focusing
• Bell’s Palsy
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

There are no long-term affects with Focal Neuropathy. It usually resolves after a few weeks or months.

Each type of diabetic nerve pain is unique in its own right. Please consult your doctor if you relate to one of these. Care is available to reduce your nerve pain.