Type 2 diabetes symptoms: The sign in your hands and feet that could signal the condition

Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body can’t control the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood or the body doesn’t respond to insulin properly and may not produce enough, causing a person’s blood glucose level to become too high. If it’s left untreated, it can lead to long-term complications with the eyes, nerves, kidneys, feet and heart. The onset of the condition can be gradual and symptoms can be mild during the early stages.

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High blood sugar levels can affect blood circulation and damage the body’s nerves.

In people with type 2 diabetes, this can lead to a strange sensation in the hands and feet.

The condition is known as neuropathy and it can worsen over time and lead to more serious complications if a person does not get treatment for their diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes can trigger a tingling sensation in the feet and hands. Nerves carry messages between the brain and every part of the body, making it possible to see, hear, feel and move.

Nerves also carry signals that a person is not aware of to parts of the body such as the heart, altering the rate it beats at and the lungs to a person can breath.

Therefore, damage to the nerves caused by type 2 diabetes can cause problems in various parts of the body.

Diabetes neuropathy

Diabetes UK said on its website: “Diabetes can cause neuropathy as a result of high blood glucose levels damaging the small blood vessels which supply the nerves.

“This prevents essential nutrients reaching the nerves.

“The nerve fibres are then damaged or disappear. There are three different types of neuropathy including sensory, automatic and motor.”

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Damaged nerves and diabetic neuropathy can’t be replaced, however, there are ways that a person can prevent further damage and relieve their pain.

Controlling blood sugar levels so the damage doesn’t progress is one way.

It’s advised that a person should speak with their GP about setting their blood sugar goal and learning to monitor it.

Taking medication is another way to help with the damaged nerves.

Antidepressants can be prescribed for diabetic nerve pain because they interfere with chemicals in the brain that cause a person to feel pain.

Keeping blood sugar under control is the best way to prevent nerve damage and avoid nerve pain.

Dietician Sarah Elder said: “Eating a balanced breakfast helps to up our energy, as well as protein and calcium used throughout the night.”

Another way blood sugar can be controlled is by exercising regularly.

The NHS advised: “Physical exercise helps lower your blood sugar level. You should aim for 2.5 hours of activity a week.”

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