What is a common symptom of neuropathy in diabetes mellitus?

Numbness in extremities is a hallmark symptom of neuropathy, particularly in patients with diabetes mellitus. Diabetic neuropathy occurs when high blood sugar levels cause damage to the nerves, typically affecting the peripheral nervous system. This damage often leads to sensory changes, such as loss of sensation, tingling, or numbness in the hands and feet. Patients may describe this numbness as a "pins and needles" feeling or may experience a complete lack of feeling in affected areas.

This symptom is particularly significant as it can increase the risk of injuries to the extremities due to decreased sensation, leading to complications such as ulcers or infections. Other symptoms can include pain and weakness, but the numbness is a distinctive feature that is commonly associated with peripheral neuropathy in diabetes.

In contrast, abdominal pain (the first choice) would not typically be classified as a symptom of diabetic neuropathy. Rather, frequent urination and headaches, while they may occur in diabetic patients for various reasons, are not direct indicators of neuropathy. Thus, numbness in extremities stands out as a definitive symptom of diabetic neuropathy.