Coping/Complications

 Short-Term

 Long-Term

Nerves affect all body functions. Diabetes can damage the nerves, causing a condition called neuropathy. Systems of the body affected by neuropathy include:

• Feet and Legs: The feet and legs are the most common areas affected by neuropathy. Symptoms of nerve damage to the feet and legs include numbness, burning, loss of hot/cold sensation, tingling, pain, cramps and even complete loss of sensation. Refer to the Foot Care section for care guidelines.
  
  
• The Digestive & Urinary Tract: Damaged nerves to the stomach, intestines or bladder can cause constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and inability to urinate properly.
  
  
• Blood Pressure: Nerve damage can prevent blood pressure from rising as it should when you change body positions. This sudden low blood pressure can cause dizziness.
  
  
• Sexual Organs: When the small vessels and nerves to the sexual organs are damaged, men may experience impotence and women may experience vaginal dryness and loss of sensation. Good long-term control of blood glucose can help prevent or reduce diabetes-related sexual problems. See a urologist specializing in diabetes, who can provide options to treat impotence. Women may find lubricating creams helpful in treating vaginal dryness.

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