Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy: The Basics You Need to Know

Life with diabetes not only involves monitoring blood sugar but also watching blood glucose levels, which can lead to complications that affect various parts of the body. Among many complications is diabetic neuropathy, where nerve damage is caused by diabetes.

In this blog, we will discuss diabetic neuropathy, its causes, related risks, and the management of this condition by incorporating supplements into daily lifestyle.

What Is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a group of nerve disorders that result from the damage caused by high levels of blood glucose. It mostly affects the nerves in your legs, with effects on other internal organs like the digestive system, heart, and sexual function.

 Its progression can be slow and subtle, which looks easy initially until the symptoms become more severe. Early detection and tight glucose control can help prevent or slow its advancement.

Types of Diabetic Neuropathy

There are several types, each with its own symptoms and areas of impact.

1. Peripheral Neuropathy

This is the most typical type, which affects the feet and legs first, followed by hands and arms. The common symptoms include

Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature

Tingling or burning sensations

Sharp pains or cramps

Muscle weakness

Loss of reflexes, especially in the ankles

Serious foot problems such as ulcers, infections, and bone/joint pain

2. Autonomic Neuropathy

This type affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions like digestion, heart rate, and bladder function. The symptoms include

Bladder problems (incontinence or retention)

Gastrointestinal issues (bloating, constipation, or diarrhea)

Sexual dysfunction

Abnormal sweating

Difficulty regulating body temperature

Drop in blood pressure upon standing (orthostatic hypotension)

3. Proximal Neuropathy (Diabetic Amyotrophy)

This is the rarest type of neuropathy that causes severe pain in the hips, thighs, or buttocks. It mostly affects one side of the body, which can lead to muscle weakness and difficulty in moving. But this has a chance of improving with time and therapy.

4. Focal Neuropathy

This type focuses on a specific part of the head, torso, or leg that happens suddenly. It even causes

Double vision or eye pain

Bell’s palsy (paralysis on one side of the face)

Pain in isolated areas, such as the lower back, chest, or abdomen

Focal neuropathies tend to resolve on their own over weeks or months, but can still be quite painful and disruptive.

Causes and Risk Factors

The main factor that causes diabetic neuropathy is due to extended exposure to high blood sugar levels, which can injure the nerves throughout the body. Other contributing factors include

Poor blood sugar control

Duration of diabetes — the longer you've had it, the higher your risk

Kidney disease increases the level of toxins in the blood, which damages the nerves

Obesity

Smoking can cause the arteries to narrow or harden, which reduces the blood flow.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Diabetic neuropathy affects different parts of the body, but symptoms may vary depending on the type and nerve involved. The signs to watch for are

Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations

Sharp, jabbing, or electric-like pain

Muscle weakness

Balance and coordination issues

Digestive problems

Increased or decreased sensitivity to touch

Changes in urination or sexual function

Managing Diabetic Neuropathy with Vervefre: A Combination for Better Pain Relief

Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that results from prolonged high blood glucose levels and elevated blood fats such as triglycerides, which cause nerve damage. Most often, diabetic neuropathy affects the feet and legs, but in some conditions, it involves the hands, arms, and even the nerves that control internal organs, which can affect their quality of life. That’s where Vervefre comes in—a specially formulated combination designed to provide better pain relief in diabetic neuropathy.

What does Vervefre consist of?

Pregabalin

A first-line treatment in all major international guidelines on the management of painful diabetic neuropathy (pDPN).¹

Leads to a clinically meaningful improvement in pain scores, offers consistent relief of pain, and has an acceptable tolerance level.¹

2–4 times more potent than gabapentin and therefore used at lower doses.¹

Methylcobalamin

A Potential Vitamin for Pain Killer.²

Shows statistical improvement in the somatic and autonomic symptoms with regression of signs of diabetic neuropathy.³

Conclusion

Diabetic neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that is manageable but can significantly impact one's quality of life if not addressed in time. With various types affecting different parts of the body—from the feet and hands to internal organs—understanding the warning signs is essential. For those already experiencing symptoms, incorporating targeted treatments like Vervefre, which combines Pregabalin and Methylcobalamin, can offer meaningful pain relief and help manage the condition more effectively. While no cure exists, proactive management and appropriate supplementation can reduce discomfort, improve function, and ultimately enhance well-being.

References

1. Ref1-  Diabetes Ther. 2019 Feb; 10(1): 35–56. PMCID: PMC6349275

2. Ref2- Neural Plast. 2013; 2013: 424651. PMCID: PMC3888748

3. Ref3- Clin Neurol Neurosung.1992;94(2):105-11 PMID: 1324807