Role of Vitamin B6 and Folic Acid in Decreasing Diabetic Peripheral Sensory and Motor Neuropathy

Abstract

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a disease of diabetic patients in which nerves of peripheral nervous system got degenerated and unable to transmit any signals. Almost 30% patients of peripheral neuropathy are positive to diabetes as well. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy occurs due to decreased serum level of B type vitamins in the body among which vitamin B6 and folic acid are more important. Objective: The main objective of this study was to determine the role of Vitamin B6 and folic acid in decreasing peripheral neuropathy. Method: This study was conducted in the hospital of sargodha from 2018 to 2020. This study was carried on 250 type 2 diabetic patients. Both males and females were included. Subjects were submitted to detailed medical history about the duration of diabetes  and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.Complete examination of nervous system was conducted .Laboratory examination was done to find out mean fasting glucose.The  control group comprised of 50 potentially healthy males and females was made. Serum level of vitamins was checked before and after treatment. Result: The main symptom which was present in all the patients was severe pain in lower legs Distal numbness was reported in 200 patients. Distal sensory neuropathy was reported in 150 patients. Distal motor neuropathy was reported in 52 patients. 157 patients had demyelinating neuropathy, 57 had axonal and 44 had mixed neuropathy. Peripheral diabetic neuropathy decreased after supplementations of homocysteine, folic acid and vitamin b6. Conclusion: Vitamin B6 and folic acid are known for their role to support healthy nervous system.Vitamin B6 and folic acid improved glycemic control through decreasing homocysteine . B6 relieves nerve pain and transmits nerve impulses correctly. The risk of peripheral neuropathy increased as serum folate decreased. Their supplementations are effective strategies for the treatment of peripheral diabetic neuropathy.