Diabetes leg numbness should never be ignored. In fact, any type of numbness found in diabetes should be brought to the attention of your doctor as soon as possible, as they could be a sign of nerve damage or other serious conditions. Diabetes leg numbness is often a sign of peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type of neuropathy found in diabetes. It usually begins in the hands and feet and moves inward to the arms and legs. If peripheral neuropathy is the cause of your diabetes leg numbness, than there is a good possibility of it progressing further if proper care is not given. If ignored, after some time amputation could be the only treatment option left.
Another condition which may cause diabetes leg numbness is peripheral arterial disease (PAD). This condition is caused by poor circulation. One helpful article on Forecast.Diabetes.org may help you to tell the difference. Review the following questions:
- Do you have pain in your legs when you walk?
- Do your feet appear red or blue in color when they or lowered?
- Does the redness disappear with elevation of your legs?
- Are your feet and legs cold?
- Do you hang your leg over the side of the bed at night to relieve pain?
- Is only one leg affected by pain?
- If so, is the leg swollen, warm to the touch, and reddish brown in color?
According to website, and its responder Lee Sanders, DPM, a response of “Yes” to any of these questions is likely an indication of PAD. If not, the diabetes leg numbness is likely to have been caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). In either case, you should consult with physician as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis.
Diabetes Numbness in Leg Medications
Whatever the reason for your diabetes leg numbness, treatment will most likely begin with good glucose control. This is usually accomplished by careful blood sugar level monitoring, diet, and exercise. This will help keep your condition from getting worse. Furthermore, with both PAD and DPN quitting smoking is a must.
If the diabetes leg numbness is due to diabetic neuropathy, there are a number of oral medications which may be prescribed. Opioids such as Ultram, Conzip, or OxyContin may be prescribed to ease pain, but these have serious side effects and long-term use is undesirable. Physicians are beginning to lean more towards prescribing anti-seizure medications and antidepressants, as these have fewer side effects and have been found to be very helpful in treating nerve conditions.
If your diabetes leg numbness is due to PAD, you are at very high risk of heart attack and stroke. You should begin your treatment by lowering your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. Medications to control any of these may be prescribed. Your doctor may recommend taking aspirin or some other antiplatelet medication. Pletal may also be prescribed to help blood flow and prevent clots. Surgery may also be required.
Any reason for diabetes leg numbness is serious, particularly those listed above. Do not hesitate to see your doctor to find the underlying cause. The sooner you get treatment the better off you will be in the long run.
