2d. Nerve Damage
Alcohol use can also make certain complications of diabetes worse, such as nerve damage. Nerve damage occurs when the body has high blood sugar levels for a long period of time. Blood sugar levels can spike dangerously after meals for people who have diabetes and are also habitual drinkers. The high blood sugar damages nerves and stops them from sending important messages throughout the body.
There are 4 different types of nerve damage, each with its own signs and symptoms.
Peripheral Nerve Damage
- Affects the hands, feet, legs or arms
- Patients have a “pins and needles” feeling, or tingling sensation
Symptoms include:
- Pain or increased sensitivity, especially during the night
- Numbness or weakness
- Foot problems, such as ulcers, infections, and bone and joint pain
Autonomic Nerve Damage
- Affects the heart, bladder, stomach, intestines, sex organs, or eyes
Symptoms include:
- Bladder or bowel issues
- Nausea, loss of appetite, and vomiting
- Decrease in sexual response in both men and women
- Changes in how the eyes adjust from light to dark
Proximal Nerve Damage
- Affects the thighs, hips, bottom, or legs
Symptoms include:
- Pain in the hip, thigh, or bottom
- Trouble getting up from a seated position
- Extreme stomach pain
Focal Nerve Damage
- Affects nerves in the hand, head, torso, or leg
Symptoms include:
- Vision issues, such as double vision
- Aching behind one eye
- Unable to move one side of the face
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or fingers
- Weakness in the hands
Preventing Nerve Damage
While avoiding alcohol is one way to help prevent nerve damage, there are other methods to follow:
Keep blood pressure in a healthy range.
Exercise daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Do not smoke.
Maintain a healthy diet.
Take medicines prescribed by your doctor.