Foundations in Continuing Education

The Dental Patient with Diabetes

Chapter Eleven - Complications of Diabetes


Chapter 1: Glucose Metabolism and Hormonal Regulation Review

Chapter 2: Diabetes Mellitus

Chapter 3: Diabetes Mellitus Type 1

Chapter 4: Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Chapter 5: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)

Chapter 6: Pre Diabetes: Impaired Glucose Homeostasis

Chapter 7: Other Specific Types of Diabetes

Chapter 8: Diagnosing Diabetes

Chapter 9: Diagnosis

Chapter 10: Glucose Monitoring

Acute Complications
Chronic Complications
Kidney Disease
Diabetic Neuropathy
Macrovascular Disease

Chapter 12: The Dental Patient with Diabetes

Chapter 13: Successful Intervention of Diabetic Emergencies

Chapter 14: Prevention and Treatment of DM

Chapter 15: Diabetes Medications

Chapter 16: Conclusion

Glossary

Appendices

References

Post Examination

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Diabetic Neuropathy (3,19,22)

25 percent of all diabetics have some form of neuropathy.

Common symptoms of diabetic neuropathy include:

  • Loss of sensation
  • Pain
  • Tingling
  • Weakness
  • Autonomic dysfunction

Peripheral Neuropathy (distal symmetrical polyneuropathy) affects the hands, feet and legs. This is the most common of the three major types of diabetic neuropathy. Feet are the most vulnerable to this disorder and should be checked carefully for any cuts, abrasions, sores or infection. Peripheral neuropathy can cause infection to go unnoticed leading to foot ulcers, which may ultimately, result in amputation.

Autonomic Neuropathy

This disorder affects many internal organs and systems:

  • Heart (orthostatic hypotension)
  • Urinary (defective perception of bladder filling and emptying)
  • Genital (impotence or decreased vaginal lubrication)
  • Gastrointestinal (constipation, diarrhea, and incontinence)

Focal Neuropathy (Mononeuropathy)

Considered an uncommon disorder in diabetics, this neuropathy may occur after acute blockage of a blood vessel supplying nerves. It may affect both sensory and motor nerves and is generally seen in older populations. Unlike peripheral neuropathy, it only affects one side of the body. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common focal neuropathy that people with diabetes experience.

Continue on to Macrovascular Disease