Nerve disease (neuropathy) can be a serious complication of diabetes and other disorders. Diabetic neuropathy occurs most frequently in individuals with a long history of diabetes and poorly controlled glucose (blood sugar). The two most common types of diabetic nerve damage are peripheral neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy. Focal neuropathy is less common and causes different symptoms.

Unlike other neuropathies, focal neuropathy appears suddenly and affects specific nerves. It occurs most often in older people with diabetes. Symptoms are likely to occur in the torso, leg or head. The most common symptoms are pain or numbness, but vision problems also may be present. Although focal neuropathy can be painful and debilitating, it usually improves within months.

As with other neuropathies, the best way to prevent the condition is by reducing the risk factors. Controlling glucose, weight and cholesterol levels helps delay or prevent diabetic neuropathy. Once the neuropathy is evident, a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, exercise, quitting smoking) can reduce the severity of the symptoms.

A diagnosis of focal neuropathy can be made after a physician reviews the medical history and patient’s symptoms and conducts a physical examination. Diagnostic tests may be conducted to further assess the location and extent of nerve damage.

Treatment focuses on relief of the symptoms caused by the nerve damage. Medications, physical therapy and adaptive equipment can be used to help with pain and weakness. People with diabetes often recover from focal neuropathy with no long-term damage.