Why Diabetics Shouldn't Ignore Tingling? Doctor's explanation

Peripheral nephropathy is damage to peripheral nerves that causes tingling, numbness in hands and feet. Apart from kidney problems, vascular and heart diseases, it is important for diabetic patients to know about 'peripheral nephropathy', a health complication associated with diabetes.

What is peripheral nephropathy?

Dr. Sachin Pawar explains that peripheral nephropathy is damage to the peripheral nerves, causing tingling and numbness in the hands and feet.

Our peripheral nerves help our body perform various sensory and autonomic functions. Peripheral nephropathy, if not diagnosed and treated early, can cause long-term pain, loss of sensation, and irreversible nerve damage.

According to studies, nearly 50 percent of adults with diabetes will develop peripheral nephropathy in their lifetime, he says.

Symptoms:

According to the doctor, the clinical symptoms of this condition vary from person to person. While some are asymptomatic, others experience severe osteopathic pain symptoms, he says.

Tingling, numbness, tingling and tingling sensations in hands and feet, and diabetic peripheral nephropathy can lead to foot ulcers, which warrant regular screening and treatment, says Dr. Pawar.

Symptoms such as anxiety, depression and sleep disorders are common and can disrupt quality of life if left untreated.

Peripheral nephropathy in diabetic patients

According to Dr. Pawar, past studies have shown that up to 50 percent of diabetic peripheral nephropathy patients are asymptomatic, which is why the condition goes undiagnosed and leads to unconsciousness.

Why is timely diagnosis important?

Early intervention is key to improving patient care and reducing healthcare costs. Spreading awareness about the condition is the need of the hour as these symptoms are often not taken seriously by patients, says the doctor.

He adds that noticing the symptoms, getting medical advice at an early stage and regular screening can prevent the condition from becoming "irreversible".

Neurotrophic B vitamins are useful in the management of peripheral nephropathy because of their ability to delay the onset of symptoms and improve nerve function. Dr. Pawar explains that these vitamins play a significant role in repairing damaged nerves.

Apart from closely monitoring our lifestyle – food intake, regular physical activity, Dr. Sachin Pawar recommends consulting a doctor to better understand the condition.