Suggest Treatment For Peripheral Neuropathy And Numbness On Toes

Posted on Wed, 26 Aug 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 26 Aug 2015 Answered on

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I think I have peripheral neuropathy due to diabetes, and several of my toes have gone numb -- the recent onset was sudden, not gradual. I've had a general, low grade loss of sensation in both feet, which I attribute to poor blood glucose control. But this recent numbness has been acute. Can you tell me if that's frequently indicated ... a slight diminution of feeling over time that's transient, then all of a sudden much of the feeling is gone .. as if the nerves just finally give up?

Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Usually gradual

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

Usually the evolution of diabetic neuropathy is a gradually progressing one, it is not typical to have sudden changes overnight. However in the case of sensory symptoms it is a subjective issue as it is difficult to quantify such symptoms objectively, can't be done through direct physical exam, depends on the subjective perception of the patient. If there are any doubts nerve conduction studies help to confirm the diagnosis.

Also I suggest a possible issue with peripheral blood circulation to be considered, which also can contribute to the altered sensation. Diabetes damages the arteries so such problems are common in diabetic patients. It is evaluated by your doctor through pulses on the feet, local temperature and if there are suspicious changes ultrasound imaging may be done.

I remain at your disposal for further questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar