What is diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy refers specifically to nerve damage that occurs as a complication of diabetes, particularly when blood sugar levels are consistently high over time. High glucose levels can lead to nerve damage in various parts of the body, most commonly affecting the legs and feet. This condition can result in symptoms such as pain, tingling, or loss of sensation, making it difficult for individuals to feel injuries or changes in temperature, which can increase the risk of complications.

The other options focus on different health issues. Damage to blood vessels is related to cardiovascular complications of diabetes rather than nerve damage. A type of skin infection does not pertain to neuropathy, as diabetic neuropathy involves the nervous system, not the skin specifically. Excessive fat accumulation, while it can be associated with metabolic issues, is not directly relevant to the definition of diabetic neuropathy, which is rooted in the effects of high blood sugar on nerve function.