Diabetic neuropathy is the condition caused by damaged nerves. The nerves are damaged because the circulation of blood that keeps the nerves functioning normally is disrupted by diabetes. High blood sugar levels are thought to ultimately cause poor blood circulation and can lead to other illnesses and complaints. People with diabetes constantly monitor their blood sugar levels and try to keep them at a normal level as much as possible. They can do this naturally, by eating foods with little or no sugar and exercise regularly. They can also inject insulin into the body to get the blood glucose to a normal level. Keeping a normal blood sugar level as often as possible can help to prevent the onset of diabetic neuropathy.

Diabetic Neuropathy is classified into four distinct types. The description of each represents the nerves affected by the neuropathy or the area of the body likely to be affected.

The most common form is Peripheral Neuropathy and pertains to the peripheral or extremities of the body, notably the hands and feet, but also the legs and arms.

A diabetic's feet are often in poor condition as a result of poor blood circulation and peripheral neuropathy. Poor circulation leads to damaged nerves that means that the diabetic often has no sensation of pain, rather, a sense of numbness in the feet. This can lead to bruises and cuts going unnoticed. As circulation provides white blood cells to heal potential wounds, this often means that the cuts and bruise don't heal as quickly as normal which can lad to more problems like infections.

The main symptom of peripheral neuropathy is numbness in the affected areas. The feet are probably the most susceptible to developing problems but the legs, hands and arms are just as prone to experience damaged nerves. However it is easier to monitor these parts of the body and they are often unconcealed which can improve their chances of healing and make it easier to apply creams and lotion to affected areas.

The second type of neuropathy is termed autonomic neuropathy and describes the nerves controlled by the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is responsible for the running and regulation of many of the critical systems in our bodies that seem to run subconsciously or automatically without us having to think about them. This includes the cardiovascular, digestion, urinary and some brain functions.

Damaged nerves in the digestion system often cause problems with the stomach. This could mean constipation or bloating of the stomach. It could also cause diarrhea and ultimately weight loss.

The ANS is also responsible for the bladder and damaged nerves in the bladder area can lead to urinary tract infections or incontinence.

As the autonomic nervous system regulates many parts of the body it is often difficult to determine what or if there is a problem with it. For example the ANS could be malfunctioning because you are under stress. It is always advisable to see a doctor if these types of symptoms persist for any length of time so that a clinical diagnosis can be performed.

The third type of neuropathy is termed proximal neuropathy and related to the hips, buttocks and thighs. The symptoms are often pain in these areas and a weakness in the muscles so that it may become difficult to stand up from a sitting position. Proximal neuropathy generally occurs in people with long term diabetes.

The four type is focal neuropathy and means a focused or focal point of nerves. Focal neuropathy can flare up suddenly and will be in one localized area. The symptoms will be pain in that localized area because on nerve or group of nerves have been damaged in some way. Focal neuropathy is generally only a temporary condition which may last a few days or a few weeks at most. Painkillers are often the best solution to get over the temporary pain.