Evaluation of Complications, Peripheral Neuropathic Pain, and Sleep Quality in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background

Most patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) suffer from problems such as neuropathic pain, sleep disturbance, anxiety, and depression, which negatively affect their quality of life. Painful DPN is one of the most common grounds for seeking medical attention. The aim of this study is to evaluate the complications, peripheral neuropathic pain, and sleep quality in diabetic patients.

Methods

This descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational study included 300 patients with neuropathic pain. Data were obtained using the Descriptive Information Form, Self-Administered Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs Scale (S-LANSS), and Richards–Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RSQ).

Results

The mean level of peripheral neuropathic pain that the patients suffered in the last week, according to the VAS, was 4.143 ± 2.983. The S-LANSS mean score of the patients was 16.493 ± 7.536, and their total mean score on the RSQ was 39.986 ± 33.150. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between the mean scores of the S-LANSS and the RSQ (r = −0.489, p < 0.001). There was also a statistically significant negative correlation between the mean scores of the Neuropathic Pain VAS and the RSQ (r = −0.401, p < 0.001). Total S-LANSS Score, duration of diabetes diagnosis, HbA1c%, neuropathic pain VAS severity, and age accounted for 36.1% of the variance in the quality of sleep score of patients.

Conclusion

Neuropathic pain and poor sleep quality were prevalent in diabetic patients. It was found that the duration of DM and microvascular complications, particularly neuropathy, impaired sleep quality.