Diabetic Neuropathy: Early Signs You Should Never Ignore

Up to 50% of people with diabetes will develop some form of neuropathy — nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar. The most common type, peripheral neuropathy, starts in the feet and legs. Catching it early can slow or stop progression.

Early Warning Signs

Watch for: tingling or "pins and needles" in feet or hands, numbness that makes it hard to feel temperature or pain, burning sensations especially at night, muscle weakness, and loss of balance. Many people dismiss these as normal aging — they are not.

The most important thing you can do is keep blood sugar in range consistently — this is where CGM monitoring becomes critical. For the complete guide to diabetic neuropathy symptoms, types, treatment, and prevention, visit the MDS Diabetes Encyclopedia.