COVID-19 is associated with high blood glucose levels: diabetic neuropathy during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a case report.

Abstract

Introduction and importance: The nerves in the legs and feet are most frequently damaged by diabetic neuropathy. The COVID-19 infection is associated with a high risk of neuropathy symptoms.

Case presentation: On 12 July 2022, a 58-year-old black female retiree with significant symptoms of numbness and muscle weakness in the hands and legs was brought into the emergency room. Seventeen years prior, she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metformin 1.5 g twice a day and glibenclamide 10 mg twice a day were part of her therapy regimen. When she was admitted to the emergency room, she described a one-day history of shortness of breath, frequent urination, excessive thirst, hyperglycemia, excessive appetite, fever, headache, and dehydration. A chest radiograph showed bilateral diffuse, patchy airspace opacities that could be caused by multifocal pneumonia or viral pneumonia. She started receiving 1000 ml of fluid resuscitation (0.9% normal saline) as soon as she was moved to an ICU, along with a drip-in insulin infusion.

Clinical discussion: Diabetes, infections like COVID-19, poor vitamin levels, and other factors can all contribute to diabetic neuropathies. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are much more likely to experience severe morbidity and death from coronavirus disease.

Conclusion: Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy continued for months after a COVID-19 infection test resulted in a positive result.