My significant other has been very lax about controlling his blood sugars for years now. I have heard often of diabetic complications pertaining to feet, but not much about how diabetes affects the hands. My man has just started complaining of cold hands and feet and of getting cramps, charley horses, in his hands. Is this a form of neuropathy?

It is certainly a possibility. Neuropathy can affect any part of the body, but particularly the extremities such as hands and feet. No, you don't need it in the feet to get it in other parts of the body.

Sounds like it needs a doctor's attention. Will he go? If not, it may be unpleasant but can you scare him into seeing the doctor by mentioning that neuropathy can lead to amputation? A bit of positive news is that a lot of neuropathy can be reversed with better control. I have had aching, tingling feet and legs from neuropathy that went away just fine when my bood sugar control improved.

Also, just incidentally does he smoke? That will makes things many times worse, and again things would improve on quitting.

Also you may wish to ask him if he values his vision.

Serious cramps along with nerve damage in the hands and feet is a very serious sign of diabetes complications.

He should have a doctor give him an a A1C. Then research a great deal.
Liver testing is recommended as well.

Yes, smoking really would make his problems worse, as would drinking alcohol.

Good luck with him,
~ Mark