In later stages, the pain is more intense and constant. Finally, a painless neuropathy develops when pain sensation is lost to an area, which greatly increases the risk of severe tissue injury without pain as an indicator of injury. Autonomic neuropathies affect the nerves that regulate involuntary vital functions including the heart muscle , smooth muscles, and glands. Low blood pressure , diarrhea , constipation , sexual impotence , and other symptoms result from autonomic neuropathies. Cranial neuropathies may affect vision and cause eye pain .
Mononeuropathies affect a single nerve and are often reversible spontaneously.
The incidence of diabetic neuropathy is 6 out of 10,000 people. Symptoms usually develop gradually over years. Treatment for diabetic neuropathy is symptomatic . Dilantin and amitriptyline at bedtime have also provided relief of leg pain associated with neuropathy. The mechanisms of diabetic neuropathy are poorly understood.