Previous Section
Diagnosis of Peripheral Neuropathy
Diagnosis of Diabetic Neuropathy
The symptoms of autonomic neuropathy, described above, affect up to 50% of diabetic patients.
Usually, symptoms of diabetic neuropathy begin with numbness and paresthesia in the foot and ascend up the leg. Over months or years, sensory loss usually intensifies and may eventually affect the arms and hands. The development of numbness in the feet is very important to note since it is usually the precursor to foot problems which can ultimately lead to ulceration, gangrene, and/or amputation. Loss of sensitivity to light touch and temperature is often an early symptom and may be followed by ataxia (lack of coordination). This increases the risk of falls and fractures.
