Diabetes Health Center
Diabetic Neuropathy - Exams and Tests
A diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy is based largely on your symptoms, medical history, and neurologic examination. During a neurologic exam, your doctor will check how well you feel light touch, temperature, pain, and movement. Your doctor will also check your strength and reflexes. Electromyogram (EMG) and nerve conduction studies may be done to confirm a diagnosis. These tests measure how well and how quickly the nerves and muscles conduct electrical impulses. When nerve damage is present, the speed of nerve function slows.
Problems associated with autonomic neuropathy-which affects the nerves that control internal functions-can be difficult to diagnose. When new symptoms develop, further testing may be needed to diagnose the problem, identify the cause, and guide treatment. For example, a study that measures how fast your stomach empties may be done if symptoms like bloating, indigestion, or vomiting suggest gastroparesis, a condition that causes the stomach to take too long to empty.
Nerve problems in people with diabetes may be caused by other conditions, such as kidney disease, alcohol dependence, or a vitamin B12 deficiency. A variety of laboratory tests (such as a complete blood count) may be used to screen for conditions other than diabetes that could be causing symptoms. Your symptoms and medical history will determine which tests are needed.
Early Detection
For some diseases, doctors can use screening tests to look for problems before you have any symptoms. But doctors cannot test for all types of autonomic or focal neuropathy. So it is important to report to your doctor any pain, weakness, or motor problems you have. Also mention any changes in digestion, urination, sexual function, sweating, or dizziness. Your doctor will also look for signs of autonomic neuropathy during your physical exams.
Screening for peripheral neuropathy can help prevent foot ulcers and amputation. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that people who have diabetes see a doctor to examine their feet for cracked or peeling skin, excessive or reduced sweating, blisters, calluses, ulcers, signs of infection, bone and joint abnormalities, and walking and balance-during each medical visit. The ADA also recommends a complete foot exam by a doctor at least once a year. 2 This examination can detect a loss of sensation in your feet, which can lead to more serious foot problems.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Diabetic Neuropathy Topics
Indication
Uroxatral® (alfuzosin HCl 10 mg extended-release tablets) is an alpha1-blocker for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH.
Important Safety Information
Do not take UROXATRAL if you have liver problems or if you are taking antifungal drugs like ketoconazole or itraconazole, or HIV drugs like ritonavir.
UROXATRAL can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when starting treatment. This may lead to fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do any dangerous activity until you know how UROXATRAL will affect you. This is especially important if you already have a problem with low blood pressure or take medicines to treat high blood pressure. There may be an increased risk of low blood pressure and fainting when taking UROXATRAL in combination with blood pressure medication or nitrates, or erectile dysfunction medication.
If considering cataract surgery (clouding of the eyes), tell your eye surgeon that you are currently taking UROXATRAL or have previously been treated with an alpha-blocker.
Before taking UROXATRAL, tell your doctor if you have kidney problems.
Also, tell your doctor if you or any family member(s) have or take medications for a rare heart condition known as congenital prolongation of the QT interval.
BPH and prostate cancer can cause the same symptoms. However, UROXATRAL is not a treatment for prostate cancer.
The most common side effects with UROXATRAL are dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and tiredness.
Please see UROXATRAL full prescribing information.
Hot Topics in Diabetes
Vinegar is in everything from coleslaw to pickles. What if you could actually use it to help prevent disease?
