Unfortunately, diabetes numb toes, feet, and hand occur quite frequently. These symptoms are due to diabetic neuropathy, or diabetic nerve damage. According to USA today, 71% of people with diabetes reported symptoms of diabetes neuropathy.
These symptoms could be indicators of many various medical conditions, so don’t just assume it is a diabetes numb that you are feeling. There are a variety of tests that physician may use, so ask your doctor about tests that will provide clear answer. One such test is called electromyography (EMG). This checks how the nerves and muscles work together. Nerve conduction studies may also be performed to examine the speed at which the nerves are sending messages.
Diabetes Numb Toe
Numb toe diabetes is usually the first indication of either nerve damage or circulation problems. If caught early, both conditions are highly reversible. Sometimes it may only be due to shoes that are too tight or too short, this is the first thing a person should check. If this does solve the problem, than an appointment for a check-up should be made in order to discuss this with your doctor. If it does clear up, it should still be discussed at your next check-up.
Diabetes Numb Feet
It is important the diabetes circulation problems be caught early, before they turn into serious nerve damage. One can avoid diabetes numb feet by keeping their blood pressure levels below 130/80. If this is difficult for you, medications that lower triglycerides and raise HDL (good cholesterol) are available, as well as those that lowers LDL (bad cholesterol).
Monitoring blood sugar levels closely, exercising, and keeping a healthy diet are also way to avoid circulation problems and nerve damage. If you are having trouble with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart conditions, or are obese it is important to talk to your doctor about what exercises are important for you. You will also want to start exercising only 5 minutes at a time at first, and then build up from there.
Diabetes Numb Foot
Whether you have a diabetes numb foot or not, part of your diabetic regiment to check your feet daily. In diabetes, even minor cuts and scrapes can lead to very serious infections if left untreated. This is because diabetics don’t have as efficient of an immune system as the general population, and circulation problems make it worse because without apt blood flow healing is even harder for the body to undertake.
Keep a mirror on the floor near your bed. This is a convenient way to look at the bottom of your foot for any abnormalities. Bacteria love crack in the skin, so wash and moisturize your foot daily. Do not apply lotion between your toes however, as this can lead to fungal infections. In addition, diabetics should never go barefoot (even around the house). Avoid open shoes, never wear new shoes long, and check into extra-thick or diabetes socks.
