Introduction
Most people who are diabetic already know about some of the conditions that can happen if you do not take care and keep your diabetes under control. There is one condition that is not talked about much and that is amyotrophy. This condition is a weakness in the lower extremities and can be painful. It can happen in the young and the old, but seems to happen as a diabetic ages. It does not happen to many diabetics, about 1% end up with this condition. It is caused by neuropathy, which is a condition of the nerves in diabetics that makes the nerves not function right. The blood flow is decreased and this leads to a lack of nutrients for proper function.
History
Some of the symptoms of amyotrophy include a reduction in the muscle mass in the thighs, legs and buttocks. You will also get pain in the same areas along with weakness and a loss of reflexes in the knees. Spinal cord damage could also occur, or there could be an increase level of spinal fluid. Usually pain and weakness are asymmetric meaning it will not make both sides of the body feel the same. Most of the time you will only have this on one side of the body. You doctor might perform an electro diagnostic test or a nerve conduction test to see how the nerves are in the affected side. It is not a permanent condition and can be reversed with physical therapy and controlling blood sugars. Being able to keep your sugar levels under control will also help you avoid some of the other complications that diabetics are more prone to end up with like: eye problems including cataracts and glaucoma, circulation problems, kidney problems and diabetic amyotrophy.
Features
One way to control amyotrophy and other diabetic problems is learning how to keep your blood sugar under control. You should make sure that you take your medications on time every day, and if you run out to make sure you tell your doctor immediately. You need to make sure that you are eating the right foods. Most diabetics know that they can not eat sugary snacks like candies and cakes, but you also have to watch out for natural carbs. You should not mix starchy foods together in the same meal. Some to avoid eating at the same time include rice, corn, potatoes and bread. These are filled with natural sugars and can make your sugar levels sky rocket. You should also avoid smoking and drink only occasionally. Getting exercise and maintaining your weight can also help to keep your sugar under control. Trying not to be stressed about things is also a great way to not get your sugar level high. You should make sure that you have a glucose meter at home and record your readings to take to your doctor. That way he can see how you are maintaining your levels and adjust your medications if needed.
Tips and comments
By following these steps you can avoid problems that are common among diabetics and avoid amyotrophy.
