Diabetes Complications Management-Diabetes Related Autonomic Neuropathy

Diabetes Related Autonomic Neuropathy

Pdf Summary

The infographic, based on the American Diabetes Association's (ADA) 2024 Standards of Care in Diabetes, highlights the importance of screening for diabetes-related autonomic neuropathy. This condition affects the autonomic nerves responsible for controlling body systems such as the digestive system, urinary tract, sex organs, heart and blood vessels, sweat glands, and eyes.

For people with type 2 diabetes, screening for neuropathy should start at diagnosis. Those with type 1 diabetes should begin screening five years post-diagnosis. Annual screenings are recommended for all individuals with diabetes following their initial screening.

To prevent or slow the progression of autonomic neuropathy, patients are advised to:
- Follow a structured eating plan and engage in at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly.
- Aim to achieve personal weight loss goals, if any.
- Manage blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels with the guidance of a diabetes care team to help protect nerve health.

Symptoms of autonomic neuropathy vary according to the body systems affected:

<strong>Digestive System:</strong> Issues include indigestion, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, feelings of food remaining in the stomach, and loss of bowel control.

<strong>Urinary Tract:</strong> Symptoms include frequent urination, infrequent urination, not feeling the need to urinate despite a full bladder, loss of bladder control, and frequent bladder infections.

<strong>Sexual Function:</strong> Men may have trouble achieving or maintaining an erection, while women may experience issues with arousal, orgasms, or vaginal dryness.

<strong>Heart/Blood Vessels:</strong> Individuals might experience dizziness upon standing, fainting, elevated resting heart rate, and heart attacks without prior warning signs.

<strong>Sweat Glands:</strong> Excessive sweating, particularly at night or while eating, absence of sweating, and dry skin on feet can occur.

<strong>Eyes:</strong> Difficulties involve adjusting vision from dark to bright environments and during nighttime driving.

For further information, individuals can visit diabetes.org or contact 1-800-DIABETES.

Keywords

diabetes

autonomic neuropathy

screening

American Diabetes Association

type 1 diabetes

type 2 diabetes

nerve health

symptoms

management

Standards of Care