- #1
mktsgm
- 145
- 22
What is the pathophysiological basis for development of neuropathy in diabetes. Or is it just statistics that we find neuropathy in many diabetic patients'.
Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes. It is caused by high blood sugar levels which can damage the nerves throughout the body, most commonly in the feet and legs.
The symptoms of diabetic neuropathy can vary, but most commonly include numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, burning or shooting pain, muscle weakness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
The exact pathophysiology of diabetic neuropathy is not fully understood, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors including high blood sugar levels, inflammation, and abnormal blood vessel function. These factors can damage the nerves, leading to their dysfunction and symptoms.
Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, affecting approximately 50% of people with diabetes. The risk of developing diabetic neuropathy increases with the duration of diabetes and poor blood sugar control.
According to the American Diabetes Association, about 60-70% of people with diabetes will develop some form of neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations and is responsible for about 60% of all amputations in the United States. It is also estimated that diabetic neuropathy costs the healthcare system over $4 billion per year.