Nerve damage

This is where it starts to get a bit trickier. It took until December 2011 to get an appt with a neurology consultant, despite discussing this with my diabetes consultant/endocrinologist in the early summer.

I had classic symptoms of Neuropathy but 1) my diabetes had been well controlled and 2) I am about 10-20 years 'too young'. Many of you have witnessed me wrapping myself up with coats and scarves, extra socks etc and visibly shaking. My hands and feet were cold to the touch, not just in my head. I also found myself collapsing in the street, getting on and off the tube and whenever I had to stand up. 

On top of this, my resting pulse rate has been extremely high (110 going up to 130-140 when doing anything active). I'm not one to worry and have become a lot more laid back after all of these experiences but I have to admit to getting a bit panicky when it feels as if your heart is jumping out of your chest.

Autonomic Neuropathy (Small Fibre)
This affects the nerves that control the heart, regulate blood pressure, and control blood glucose levels. It also affects other internal organs, causing problems with digestion, respiratory function, vision etc. In addition, it makes it difficult to detect a hypo. 

Damage can also cause the stomach to empty too slowly, a condition called gastroparesis. Sever gastroparesis can lead to persistent nausea and vomiting, bloating, and loss of appetite. Gastroparesis can also make blood glucose levels fluctuate widely, due to abnormal food digestion.

Peripheral Neuropathy

This affects areas such as your hands and feet. In the summer of 2011-early 2012, I was admitted to hospital several few times with recurrent kidney infections. I had excruciating pain across the top of my foot - as if someone was stabbing it with a dagger and occasionally twisting it around. My toes felt as if they were on fire. 

Despite a plethora of medication (even including a cream made from chillies), there still is the pain in my feet and legs which is always worse at night. It can get up to 10/10 pain and is supposed to be on par with childbirth. I have quite a lot of medication now to help with the pain but sometimes even the strongest medication I have doesn't work. It also makes me drowsy, forgetful, makes me feel low and is very much a balancing act that is going to take a while to well, balance.