### Symptoms of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a condition caused by long-term high blood sugar levels, leading to nerve damage. Here are some common symptoms: 1. **Numbness and Tingling**: You may feel numbness in your feet or hands. Sometimes, it feels like you're wearing a sock or glove when you're not. 2. **Pain**: This can include sharp, sudden pains that feel like an electrical current, or cramping when holding objects. 3. **Loss of Balance and Coordination**: Numbness in the feet can lead to walking with a wobbly motion or even losing your balance. Muscle weakness, especially in the ankle, can affect your gait. 4. **Foot Injuries**: Unusual shifts in weight due to abnormal walking and loss of nerve function can cause foot injuries like hammertoe. You may also notice sores or blisters that you can't explain. 5. **Exaggerated Sensations**: Holding a warm cup of coffee may feel painfully hot, or a touch from someone with cold hands may hurt. Your hands or feet may feel hot or cold for no apparent reason. 6. **Nighttime Worsening**: Symptoms often worsen at night, making it difficult to sleep. Even a bed sheet can feel very heavy and painful. ### Managing Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy - **Work with Your Healthcare Provider**: Proper medication and regular check-ups are essential. - **Limit Alcohol and Avoid Tobacco**: These substances can worsen symptoms. - **Good Nutrition**: Ensure you get enough vitamins, especially if you're on metformin. Consider a vitamin B-12 supplement. - **Foot Care**: Regularly check your feet for sores or blisters and attend to any wounds immediately to prevent infections that could lead to amputation. By managing your condition and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can alleviate many of the symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.