Limb loss -due to lack of sensation cuts, bruises and infection go unnoticed and lead to infected ulcers. To make matters worse the blood supply may be compromised and may lead to gangrene which is responsible for a loss of limb.
Charcot joint – it is the deterioration of the joint due to nerve damage leading to swelling, sensory loss, joint instability, and deformity.
Urinary tract infection and urinary incontinence – due to damage to the nerves controlling the bladder preventing it from emptying completely which leads to bacteria multiplying and causing urinary tract infection. The damage of the nerves also leads to reduced ability to know when to pass urine with loss of control leading to incontinence.
Unaware of hypoglycemia – normally if the blood sugar falls below 70 mg% you develop sweating, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness.
Low blood pressure – damage to the nerves causes this and when you stand or sit there is a sudden fall of blood pressure which could lead to fainting.
Digestive problems – may cause constipation or diarrhea along with bloating, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. It is due to slow emptying of the stomach. It may severely affect blood sugar levels and nutrition.
Sexual dysfunction – it is due to the damaged nerves leading to loss of erectile function in men and arousal in women.
Increased and decreased sweating – If the sweat glands not functioning properly the body temperature cannot be regulated properly. Reduction or total lack of sweating (anhydrosis) can be life-threatening.