Every year she visits her ophthalmologist to have her eyes checked for diabetic eye disease. Her doctor dilates Joan's pupils and looks into her eyes carefully to detect any changes that may have occurred since her last visit. They discuss diabetic retinopathy and the importance of yearly check-ups to detect and treat any eye problems that may occur. Although Joan has very mild diabetic changes in her eyes, these changes do not pose a threat to her vision and are not likely to progress if she stays in excellent diabetic control. Nerve Disease Nerve disease caused by diabetes is called diabetic neuropathy.
Peripheral neuropathy affects the hands, feet, legs, toes, or fingers.
A person's feet, legs, and fingertips may lose feeling, burn, or become painful. To relieve the pain, doctors prescribe pain-killing drugs and sometimes antidepressant drugs. Scientists are studying other substances to help relieve pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Because of the loss of feeling associated with peripheral neuropathy, feet are especially vulnerable. You should check your feet carefully each day for cuts, bruises, and sores.