Why is neuropathy a problem?
• While some people find these symptoms only mildly annoying, others experience severe debilitating pain, which interferes with their sleep and/or their ability to work and play. • If you lose sensation, you could injure your foot and not even know it. Couple this with a decrease in circulation which could be present in your feet, along with elevated glucose levels, and you will have a much longer and more difficult time healing. • According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, a lower-limb amputation occurs every 30 seconds due to diabetes. The good news is that following a comprehensive foot care program can reduce amputation risk by 45 to 85%. • Another consideration is alcohol intake: although social drinking is accepted as part of a normal meal plan for people with diabetes, be aware that excess alcohol intake can cause or aggravate neuropathy. Be sure to review your alcohol intake with your physician. • Also, it will be no surprise to learn that smoking can also aggrava
