Causes of Diabetic Nerve Pain
Nerve pain caused by diabetes can make even the gentlest touch painful. That stabbing, throbbing, shooting pain in your feet, legs, arms, and hands can be symptoms of diabetic nerve pain. Your pain may be a symptom of nerve damage caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Diabetic nerve damage can affect people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. No one yet knows exactly what causes the nerve damage. Having high blood sugar (glucose) levels over time is likely to be involved. While diabetic nerve pain can occur at any time, those who have had diabetes for a long time may be more likely to develop the painful symptoms. People who have had problems controlling their blood sugar levels, have high blood pressure, are overweight, or have had diabetes for at least 25 years may also have a greater risk of developing diabetes-related nerve damage.
The nerve damage due to diabetes is usually seen in the feet and legs and, less often, in the hands and arms. Damaged nerves can cause non painful symptoms (such as loss of feeling, numbness, or tingling) or painful symptoms (such as aching or burning). The damage can also cause the nervous system to become overly sensitive. Even very light touch or the slightest movement may trigger pain.
Fortunately, research has shown that patients with diabetes may actually lessen the chance of further nerve damage through a combination of diet, exercise, and improved control of blood sugar. While no other measures have provided proven relief for nerve damage, some things you can do to prevent other complications from your diabetes include lowering your blood pressure, lowering your cholesterol, avoiding smoking, and reducing the amount of alcohol you drink.
And there are effective options for managing diabetic nerve pain, such as Cymbalta or nonmedicinal treatments, like acupuncture. Ask your doctor what you can do.
