What could be causing the "pins and needles" sensation of a diabetic where basically clothing touches?

Question

Clothing areas mostly affected are the (where the waist band of pants are, mostly to the sides of the navel) stomach and some in the chest area (stomach is the worst) and the thighs (where also pants rub) It hurts to the touch, when removing clothing. Laying in bed does not seem to bother--my hubby, but yet lower extremities are not affected as we have been told to expect for a diabetic. Yet he does get muscle cramps in his leg quite a bit. Left hand feels like it is cramping and draws inward some (yes, he smokes) and he says he feels like he has lost alot of muscle strength (some of this we are sure is due to age-44 and lack of exerise and physicial activity). Yes he has diabetes and is on insulin, metformin and amaryl (or the generic version thereof). His endocrynologist was not overly concerned, but hubby says it feels like it is getting worse. What should we/he be doing other than making another appointment very soon???

We do suspect neuropathy but we were told to expect this in the hands and feet, not the stomach area.

ED has been there for about 4 years now. Too late I'm afraid. This is my hubby I am referring to. He is the diabetic, I'm the nag and fusser and the ear when he needs someone to listen to.

Answer 1

First, if you do not control your blood sugar you will get nerve damage and have blood flow problems...control the sugar at all times. The best way to control blood sugar is to test with a meter at least 3 to 5 times a day until you are under control.

Second, walk and work out 3 times a week so you get good blood flow. Do not damage your feet while you do this and make sure that you dress for the weather if you walk outside, keep the feet warm.

Third, find some ways to work the hands but do not damage them. I use light weights as I walk so I am sure to get good blood flow to the arms.

Fourth, keep your legs warm at night so the legs don't cramp. Look on the internet to see how to work cramped leg muscles. I make sure that I don't work my legs hard before bed because the legs will need more blood flow for awhile and you will cramp.

Fifth, I go to the store and buy diabetic vitamins packs and that seems to help too.

Sixth, the next thing that will happen is even more leg pain and you will lose feelings in your feet. At the same time you will start having ED problems and there goes your sex life.

EAT RIGHT AND WORK OUT OR YOU WILL HAVE THE PROBLEMS I HAVE...KEEP ME POSTED AND WORK WITH YOUR ENDO OR OTHER DOCTORS.

I hope this helps and I trust you will like the answers I have given

Answer 2

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Answer 3

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Answer 4

I had heard that neuropathy started in feet, but I see no reason that it couldn't start elsewhere. I became diabetic just three years ago. I've managed to control it rather well, so far. You might want to see what I'm doing and see if your husband is willing to try something that really works. My recent HbA1C was 5.8. I'll bet his has been over 6.5 or 7, huh? Sounds like you need to try something new. I would fire that doctor in a hurry. Here's a link to my diabetes info webpage:
http://www.geocities.com/seabulls69/Type_II_Diabetes.html

Answer 5

Maybe it's neuropathy.

Edit*** Can you get an appointment with a different endocrinologist? Maybe one who specializes even more in diabetes than an endocrinologist. If it is bothering your husband then it is definitely something you should demand answers for. Also try cutting down on the smoking. Circulation in diabetics is poor and smoking is definitely not helping.

Answer 6

its diabetic neuropathy. Proper management of blood sugar levels can control it. Drugs that cna help are carbamazepin, metylcoblamin etc.