Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar can damage nerves throughout your body. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to serious foot problems and, in time, to problems like diarrhea or constipation, sexual problems, bladder infections, and heart problems.

The older you get, and the longer you have diabetes, the more likely you are to have nerve damage. Keeping your blood sugar in your target range can help keep neuropathy from getting worse.