A prospective survey study was performed in patients with painful diabetic polyneuropathy
(PDN) to assess the nature and scope of their pain. Pain associated with diabetic
neuropathy is commonly encountered in clinical practice. Yet, little is known regarding
the pain experience and impact on quality of life in persons with painful diabetic
neuropathy. These 105 patients noted an average of 6/10 pain, most often described
as 'burning', 'electric', 'sharp', and 'dull/ache', which, for most, is worse at night
time and when tired or stressed. On average, patients reported that the pain caused
substantial interference in sleep and enjoyment of life and moderate interference
in recreational activities, normal work, mobility, general activity, social activities,
and mood. Unexpectedly, a potential genetic predisposition to the development of painful
neuropathy was suggested by the fact that a majority (56%) reported a family member
with PDN. Thus, this study found that pain associated with diabetic neuropathy is
a significant medical issue that has a substantial impact on the quality of life of
many people with this condition.