Numbness in toes diabetes is a condition that people with insulin dependent and insulin resistant diabetes mellitus experience when they have prolonged episodes of raised blood glucose levels, which results in nerve damage. When a person has an impaired insulin function, the body is unable to transfer glucose from the bloodstream into other cells in the body where it is necessary for absorption as energy. The extra sugar remains in the blood and acts like a poison to the blood vessels and nerves. The sugar will eventually block the circulation to the extremities, which can lead to diabetes numbness in toes, fingers, feet, and hands. Left untreated, the portion of the body that is affected will eventually die and require amputation in order to prevent further nerve damage.
Nerve damage, or neuropathy, affects approximately three quarters of all diabetic patients at some point during their illness. The numbness is a warning sign that the individual has elevated levels of blood glucose and they need to stabilize them immediately.
Numbness in Toes Diabetes – Symptoms
Symptoms of numbness in toes diabetes may present in a variety of ways. An individual may notice that they have no sensation at all in the toes and feet due to poor blood circulation. The toes and feet may ache or throb or they may feel shooting, stabbing, burning, or tingling sensations resulting from the nerve damage. All of the symptoms may come and go in cycles or they may be present at all times. Seeking therapy for the foot pain and assistance in stabilizing blood sugar in vital to do immediately rather than waiting for the problem to go away. Waiting will only worsen the problem causing further infection and possibly amputation.
Numbness in Toes Diabetes– Treatment
Numbness in toes diabetes can be treated by maintaining strict levels of blood glucose levels. An individual may accomplish this task by eating a healthy diet with a balanced ratio of carbohydrates to proteins to fats. It is essential to eliminate food and drink that can cause rises in the sugar, such as alcoholic and caffeinated beverages and commercially baked goods. These foods impart little nutritional value, but do offer many empty calories.
A diabetic also needs to exercise daily in order to increase their blood circulation, decrease blood sugar levels, and maintain overall health. Numbness and pain in the toes and feet may make physical activity difficult at first, so it is important to find exercise that is gentle to the body. Low impact workouts such as walking or swimming are ideal. Refraining from smoking tobacco is advised as this action restricts blood vessels, leads to cancer, stroke, and heart disease, and can complicate diabetes.
Lastly, diabetics should take excellent care of their feet with daily inspections for any problem that could lead to infection. Wearing orthopedic shoes or ones that fit properly will reduce the risk of injury to the foot.
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