2012年8月31日 星期五

Causes of Diabetic Neuropathy


If you are a diabetic then you should realize the importance of strictly monitoring your blood sugar levels and taking all possible action to keep it within the prescribed range. Several complications including diabetic neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and cataracts can quickly join diabetes in causing further harm to your body. Here are some different causes of diabetic neuropathy and some steps that can be taken by you to remain in control of the disease.

 

In addition to regular monitoring and delivery of insulin, you will also need to maintain a strict control over your diet and also exercise regularly to increase your body's metabolism and improve your blood circulation. Diabetics suffer from poor blood circulation and nerve end damage due to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Hence if your blood glucose fluctuates wildly or if you have had diabetes for a longer period of time then you could develop diabetic neuropathy.

If you are obese and have not given up smoking or drinking, then that too could lead you towards the path of diabetic neuropathy. If you had any injury to your nerves or suffer from inflammation of the nerves, or lastly get caught in the heredity trap, then that too could add another cause for diabetic neuropathy. In other words diabetic neuropathy hinders the nerves ability to transmit signals from the brain and can also damage blood vessels that transport vital nutrients and oxygen to nerves. 

 

Diabetic neuropathy itself is classified into 4 groups. The first one is Autonomic neuropathy which affects digestion, bladder and bowel movements and also impairs sexual functions. It can also affect nerves leading to the heart, eyes and lungs. The second is Peripheral neuropathy which affects the movement and feelings in hands, legs, feet and toes. The third type is Focal neuropathy in which any nerve or a group of nerves in the body experiences abrupt pain or weakness. The fourth type is proximal neuropathy which can cause pain in the buttocks, hips or thighs, which in turn can lead to weakness in the legs. Unfortunately you will not realize which diabetic neuropathy is going to attack your body until you start exhibiting the symptoms.

 

You should not ignore your problems and rush to your doctor at a late stage, but instead rush immediately so that you can be put on medications in a bid to slow down the effects of diabetic neuropathy. You can even go in for surgery in case you suffer from diabetic retinopathy. There are also alternative natural treatments available in the form of antioxidants such as alpha lipoic acid capsules, which can lessen the pain associated with diabetic neuropathy and can also help to balance blood glucose levels.

These capsules can also help in the treatment of diabetic pets such as dogs and horses but cannot be used on cats due to a toxic reaction with its liver. One simple method to stay ahead of diabetic neuropathy is regular examinations at hospitals or at your doctor's clinic. A healthy diet and regular exercise to build up vital muscle tissue can also go a long way in delaying or avoiding this unwanted complication associated with diabetes.

 

Hence, even though diabetes brings along its own baggage of associated complications, you can still beat them with diet, exercise and regular tests. Pay heed to the different causes of diabetic neuropathy and discontinue any bad habits that could hasten the onset of the disease.               

 

Drink lots of water because it is calorie free and helps to flush away the toxins. Did you know that flavored carbonated water has no calories, sugar, body, sweetener, color or preservatives?




Do you want to read more? Check out tutorials.carbonatedseltzerwater.com/

This article is submitted by Ola Martinsson, who just recently got the diagnosis diabetes. Trying to read and understand as much as possible about diabetes. Found an interesting site at http://adviceondiabetes.com with a free ebook including more than 500 diabetes recipes.





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Do Gingko and Vitamin E Have a Role in Management of Diabetic Neuropathy?


Familiar symptoms of diabetic neuropathy include burning pain and numbness typically in the feet. The behavior of animals can be used as a model to substantiate the extent of neuropathy and its response to treatment. However, the aetiology of these disturbances is still unknown, although metabolic factors such as hyperglycemia or neurotransmitter alterations may be involved. The abnormalities seen the nerves of diabetic patients seem to be related to fluctuations in a cellular enzyme known as PKC or Protein Kinase C. In the complex scheme of energy creation in the cell, a chemical known as ATP is broken down and contributes a hi energy phosphate molecule, Protein Kinase C, is an enzyme responsible for this reaction.

This entire process, removing a phosphate molecule and transferring it to a protein, is called phosphorylation. The goal of this reaction is to either switch on or deactivate various metabolic pathways. There are many diverse forms of PKC, the one that appears most relevant to our discussion of diabetic neuropathy, appears to the PKC isoform Beta. Available research suggests that PKC~Beta appears to be the over-active form of PKC in diabetic patients. Another line of evidence supports the involvement of PKC in diabetic neuropathy. Drugs that block this enzyme ameliorate diabetic complications. Nerves contain both calcium and sodium channels that are accountable for their function. It appears that PKC, interacts with these channels and this interaction is at least partially responsible for the symptoms of pain and numbness in diabetic patients. Additional research suggests that PKC activation brings forth hyperexcitability in specific nerve fibers related to pain, the so called C-fibers. Activation and hyperactivity of pain carrying (C-fibers) is believed to develop many of the painful symptoms in patents with neuropathy. A number of studies protein kinase inhibitors and their effects on both nerve function and the signs and symptoms of neuropathy are appearing the scientific literature.

Interestingly, chemicals that block PKC, have the ability to reduce the volatility in damaged nerves in animals suffering from experimentally induced neuropathy. Blocking the CPK enzyme produces little or no effect on the function of normal nerves from control animals. This property, the normalizing of nerve function, occurred in a dose-dependent manner. That means the higher the dose of the PKC inhibitor, the more normalization of nerve function occurred. This and similar experiments, seem to indicate that the PKC enzyme plays an vital role in the development of the intense nerve pain of neuropathy and that agents that can block this enzyme can tone down or modulate the over-excited nerves that carry pain signals in neuropathy patients.

To further support the link between CPK and the nerve complications in diabetes, other experiments demonstrated that drugs that enhance the action of PKC actually will produce or aggravate the nerve abnormalities associated with diabetes. Thus the current experimental data implies that PKC activation will aggravate and PKC inhibition will ameliorate the abnormal nerve activity found in diabetes. Special nerve tests known as nerve conduction studies, also confirm the contention that PKC is related to nerve function and neuropathy. These nerve conduction study tests show that activation of PKC leads to enduring enhancement of electrical activity in a part of the spinal cord called the dorsal horn. The dorsal horn functions to carry sensation, including pain from the body to the brain. From all this data, one could conjecture that activation of PKC in diabetic nerves explains at least in part, the development irritating neuropathy. Currently there are a number of drugs under development that are designed to block or decrease the activity of the PKC enzyme and lighten neuropathic pain. The practitioner of Integrative Neurology might suggest naturally occurring PKC inhibitors as alternatives to drugs. Let's take a look at some natural substances that may serve as efficacious PKC enzyme inhibitors.

At this point in our discussion, I must issue a disclaimer: The information I am about to present to you is not intended to replace the recommendation given by a licensed healthcare provider. Natural therapies are usually safe, but you may be allergic or otherwise intolerant of them.

Furthermore they can and do interact with other natural and prescription medications. Always consult your doctor before adding or changing your treatment plan. So only use this information in conjunction with a licensed healthcare practitioner. Gingko Biloba: Gingko is one of the most widely used herbs. It is often taken to help with memory problems and to increase circulation. One of the therapeutic properties of Gingko may be related to its ability to suppress the activation of PKC enzymes. Which at least in theory, suggests it might be useful for patients suffering from neuropathy. EGb 761 is a Gingko derivative, that appears to block the PKC enzyme. This quality may in part explain Gingko's purported ability to protect nerves and neurons. Another study supported these findings, the authors conclude that the Gingko derivative, EGb 761 protects the nerves and brain via PKC inactivation. Taken together, these results support the hypothesis that dietary intake of natural substances that may inhibit the activation of PKC, may be beneficial in normal aging of the brain. Vitamin E: This vitamin has a long historical use in the prevention of heart disease and atherosclerosis. The mechanism of action of vitamin E may be related to its ability to antagonize the activation of the PKC enzyme.

Further, studies show that high doses of vitamin E were able to decrease the level of PKC induced by diabetes or prolonged high blood sugar. Thus animal and clinical studies have shown that high doses of vitamin E treatment can apparently reverse some of the complications seen in association with diabetes and high blood sugar. The apparent health benefits of vitamin E in diabetes are related to its ability to suppress PKC activation. So in diabetic patients, without contraindications or known sensitivity to Gingko and Vitamin E, the addition of these two nutrients to their standard diabetic management program may reduce, slow or even reverse some of the complications of high blood sugar including neuropathy.

Always consult your doctor before adding or changing your diabetes management program.




Dr. Kukurin is a Diplomat with the American Chiropractic Academy of Neurology (DACAN). To attain this prestigious status he attended a three year post-graduate program in neurology. Dr. Kukurin has also received post-graduate education from a number of leading medical schools including Harvard, Johns Hopkins, the Mayo Clinic, UNICO and the Russian People's Friendship University in Moscow.

Some of the treatment techniques he developed have been published in peer reviewed medical journals and are indexed in the National Library of Medicine. The results patients have obtained using his treatment approaches have appeared on FOX and ABC affiliate newscasts. He has been practicing as a chiropractic neurologist for over 20 years. He sees patients in offices located both in Litchfield Park Chiropractic and Pittsburgh Chiropractic





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Chiropractic Care for Your Diabetic Neuropathy


If you have diabetes and one or more of these symptoms [1]:


Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting
Difficulty swallowing
Deep pain, especially in your legs and feet
Loss of sensation and ability to feel warmth or cold
Muscle cramps
Numbness, tingling or burning in your arms, hands, legs or feet
Weakness
Dizziness, especially when you try to stand up
Drooping facial muscles
Loss of bladder control

You've probably been diagnosed with diabetic neuropathy.

Your doctor has probably explained that diabetic neuropathy is peripheral neuropathy specific to patients who have diabetes and that it is caused by lack of blood flow to the nerves and elevated and uncontrolled blood sugar levels.

You're probably taking painkillers. You're probably closely monitoring your blood sugar (hopefully). You're probably being more careful about your diet (as you should). So how are your neuropathy symptoms now? If they're not improving, you might want to add something else to your treatment plan...

Chiropractic Treatment for Diabetic Neuropathy

Chiropractic care for neuropathy patients usually concentrates on correcting misalignments in the spine. Those misalignments can wreak havoc on your nervous system and your internal organs - including the pancreas, a direct link to diabetes.

If the other pieces of your treatment puzzle are not working as quickly as you had hoped, and you're doing everything else your doctor tells you to do, contact your local neuropathy specialist. Your clinician has an exclusive treatment protocol with proven results for neuropathy patients. An integral part of that treatment protocol is chiropractic adjustment to correct problems with your spinal alignment.

Pain Reduction and Nerve Repair

As a result of your chiropractic adjustment for neuropathy, the next step in your treatment for diabetic neuropathy is taking steps to reduce your symptoms and help the nerves repair themselves. This can be done through a combination of topical pain medications, manual manipulation of the bones and joints to properly align the nervous system and nerve stimulation.

Proper alignment of the bones and muscles and nerve stimulation are all important aspects of successful treatment of neuropathy.

Personal Care Tips For The Diabetic Neuropathy Patient

Diabetes is the fifth deadliest disease in the United States and the number of people diagnosed with diabetes is growing at an alarming rate.

One of the things that makes diabetes so deadly is the risk for infection and resulting amputation. Diabetic neuropathy is a serious contributing factor in the risk for amputation.

While you're undergoing treatment for diabetic neuropathy [2] and having chiropractic adjustments, pay particular attention to your feet, hands, arms and leg. Contact your neuropathy specialist immediately if you notice any blisters, sores, torn skin, or inflammation. The combination of your diabetes and your neuropathy can lead to very serious infections that are slow or impossible to heal. This can lead to dire complications that can be avoided if you receive the proper medical treatment early.

Do a visual inspection and don't rely on soreness or pain. Your neuropathy impairs your ability to feel pain in your extremities and you may not notice the problem until it's too late for successful treatment.

Keep a close eye on your diabetes. Make note of any of the symptoms we described. If you have any of the issues we've discussed, contact your local clinician and take full advantage of their expertise in the treatment of peripheral neuropathies, including diabetic neuropathy and their ability to provide chiropractic care to correct misalignment in your spine.

The positive effects of chiropractic adjustment on neuropathy are being affirmed by a growing number of case studies. Give it serious consideration in treating your diabetic neuropathy.




Dr. John Hayes, Jr. is an Evvy Award Nominee and author of "Living and Practicing by Design" and "Beating Neuropathy-Taking Misery to Miracles in Just 5 Weeks!".

Neuropathy patients, doctors and physical therapists can find lots more about the neuropathy treatments and systems of Dr John Hayes Jr by going to http://neuropathydr.com. Peripheral neuropathy doctors, physical therapists and patients will find more information as well as post comments and questions at this site as well.

Resources: [1] http://diabetes.webmd.com/tc/diabetes-neuropathy-treatment-overview; [2] http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/peripheral-neuropathy/DS00131





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2012年8月30日 星期四

Type 2 Diabetes - Would You Know If You Have Diabetic Neuropathy?


Diabetic neuropathy is the most common complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In the US alone, 60 per cent of 23 million diabetics have developed this complication which can take two forms:


peripheral neuropathy
autonomic neuropathy

The most disfiguring and also debilitating outcome of peripheral neuropathy is the development of foot ulcers, leading to necrosis or death of cells and consequently to foot amputation. This is the number one cause of nontraumatic amputations.

Symptoms of nerve damage may include:


numbness and tingling in your feet, legs, hands, arms and fingers
muscle wasting of your hands or feet
digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea
problems with urination
sexual dysfunction in both males and females
dizziness, faintness, increased or decreased sweating
visual difficulties
lack of awareness of warning signs of low blood sugar

As you can see neuropathy affects every nerve in every part of your body as a consequence of elevated blood sugar levels.

But, not all diabetics have this complication. And clinically, health care providers are unable to tell which of their patients are going to develop these neuropathies.

How are diabetic neuropathies diagnosed?


diagnosis is usually made on the basis of symptoms and a physical examination
your health care provider may order other tests as part of your diagnosis including nerve conduction studies or an ultrasound
it is important to have a comprehensive foot exam yearly to check for peripheral neuropathy. During this examination your skin, muscles, bones, circulation and sensation of your feet will be checked. People are usually unaware they have lost sensation in their feet ... it is potentially a serious condition as it removes the usual warning people get when their feet are being damaged. So if you have lost sensation in your feet it is important that you have regular feet checks and follow the advice that you are given regarding footwear.

How do your prevent diabetic neuropathies?

Modern research has clearly shown that the degree of long-term complications depends directly upon your blood sugar levels over the course of the years you have had diabetes. One study showed that for every 1% reduction in your HbA1c level there was a 37% fall in the risk of complications from diabetic neuropathies. Blood pressure control also played a part: a 13% reduction for every 10mmHg fall in blood pressure.




The key to preventing and treating neuropathy is to get your type 2 diabetes under control, particularly your blood sugar levels. Whilst there are many diabetic medications available to control diabetes, the basis of diabetic control is a healthy diet and lifestyle.

If you would like to download a free copy of my E-Book, click here now: Answers to Your Questions ... it's based on questions diabetics have asked me over recent months.

Beverleigh Piepers is a registered nurse who would like to help you understand how to live easily and happily with your type 2 diabetes.





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Type 2 Diabetes - How to Ease the Discomfort of Diabetic Neuropathy!


The term "diabetic neuropathy" serves as a name used to describe a group of nerve disorders caused by Type 2 diabetes. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, around sixty to seventy percent of people with Type 2 diabetes end up having some forms of diabetic neuropathy. This problem can develop anytime in a diabetic... no one is really sure yet why high blood sugar levels lead to nerve problems. But the longer a person has diabetes, the more likely it is they will develop neuropathy.

What are the risk factors for the development of diabetic neuropathy?

1. Number of years having diabetes: People who have diabetes for more than twenty-five years are at a higher risk for diabetic neuropathy.

2. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels: Uncontrolled blood sugar level causes faster development of peripheral neuropathy.

3. High cholesterol level.

4. Overweight and obesity.

In most cases, people who complain about nerve pains are those having the peripheral type of neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy, involving the hands and/or feet, is the most common form of diabetic neuropathy. When you have this condition, you:


lose the sensation of light touch
often experience tingling and burning
experience loss of balance
worsening of the symptoms at night
pain

Damage to your feet may occur because you simply do not feel it happening. Infection may set in which could even lead to amputation.

According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, diabetics suffering from peripheral neuropathy usually visit their doctor because they can no longer tolerate the discomfort they have at night.

How do you ease the discomfort associated with peripheral neuropathy?

1. Topical treatment: Treatments may be applied to the skin to ease the pain and discomfort. The most common examples of topical treatment are capsaicin cream and lidocaine patches. Other possible topical treatments currently being investigated include nitrate sprays, alpha lipoic acid and primrose oil.

2. Oral medications: Most doctors treat neuropathy through the use of oral medications. The most common examples include:


anticonvulsants - the most common anticonvulsants used are pregabalin, gabapentin and carbamazepine
tricyclic antidepressants - may include imipramine, amitriptyline and desipramine
opiods and opiod-like medications such as oxycodone and tramadol
vitamin B 12 - according to a study published by Acta Neurologica Taiwanica in June 2005, vitamin B 12 may also be an effective medication for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy in diabetics. However, a larger scale study is still needed to establish this fact.

Home treatments such as warm compress are usually discouraged since this action may burn the skin. Type 2 diabetics should seek the advice of their doctor before commencing any treatment offering them relief from any pain associated with diabetic neuropathy.




To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.

Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide





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Triglyceride Levels Predict Diabetic Neuropathy Progression


Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is an abnormality of the nervous system in diabetics which results in a loss of sensation in the feet and the legs. The exact cause of peripheral neuropathy in diabetics is not clearly understood, but many theories exist. One popular theory is based on the loss of small vessel blood flow to the nerves, which impairs the nerves and results in nerve dysfunction. A new study, published online in the journal Diabetes, found that elevated triglycerides were associated with the progression of diabetic neuropathy (1). Researchers at the University of Michigan and Wayne State University evaluated 427 diabetic patients with neuropathy. The sural nerve, which travels on the outside of the leg down to the foot, was used to measure fiber density, the nerve signal speed and vibration threshold. After one year, those individuals with high triglycerides at baseline had significant progression of their neuropathy in comparison to those with normal triglyceride levels at baseline. The duration of diabetes, active treatment of diabetes or body mass index were not associated with neuropathy progression. The authors concluded that triglyceride levels are an active predictor of neuropathy progression in diabetics.

The authors stated that the study findings reinforced the link between cardiovascular disease and peripheral neuropathy. Triglycerides are a type of fat the body uses to store energy. When food consumed exceeds calories exerted, the body stores the excess calories in fat cells as triglycerides. Triglycerides are part of the blood lipid panel used to evaluate cardiovascular disease risk. Elevated triglycerides are a well-known cardiovascular disease risk factor.

The idea that lipids are associated with small blood vessel disease (microangiopathy) is not new. Previous studies have found associations between high levels of triglycerides in the blood and microangiopathy in diabetics (2). The lack of blood flow to the nerves, as a result of microangiopathy, causes changes within the nerves (demyelination and axonal degeneration) and results in nerve dysfunction. Microangiopathy causes the blood vessel lining to thicken which results in a narrowing of the vessel lumen, reducing blood flow (3). Without adequate blood flow, the nerves undergo changes, which ultimately result in nerve dysfunction. This recent research reinforces the link between small blood vessel disease and diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

1. Wiggin TD et al. Elevated Triglycerides Correlate with Progression of Diabetic Neuropathy. Diabetes published online, May 1, 2009, as db08-1771.

2. Eckel RH et al. Plasma lipids and microangiopathy in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Care. 1981 Jul-Aug;4(4):447-53.

3. Powell HC. Microangiopathy in human diabetic neuropathy. Acta Neuropathologica. Volume 68, Number 4 / December, 1985.




Christine Dobrowolski, DPM is a podiatrist and owner of Northcoast footcare, Inc an online resource for foot health information and foot care products. More information on diabetic neuropathy.





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Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment


If you are suffering from diabetes you will be familiar with the nerve pain called neuropathy. If you have experienced this pain then neuropathy treatment is vital. Neuropathy typically occurs over time and has been found to be due to prolonged high blood sugar levels, typically five years or more. There are other factors that can cause neuropathy but if you have been diagnosed with diabetes this may be the ultimate cause.

Some symptoms of neuropathy are obvious, such as pain in your extremities, most likely your feet. However, there are more subtle signs you may want to be aware of and treat. Such signs include tingling, numbness, erectile dysfunction and even diarrhea. How do you prevent neuropathy or treat the neuropathy you have? The best way to treat neuropathy is through blood sugar control.

Here are the most effective steps to take:

1. Monitor you glucose levels regularly. Commit to the amount of times your physician has recommended and keep a log of your levels throughout the day.

2. Eat right. A diet that helps alleviate nerve pain is basically no different from a good, healthy, balanced diet. A balanced diet outlines what you should eat, when you should eat, how much you should eat, and also allows for healthy snacks. Understandably, it's not always easy to watch everything you eat. Just remember that every bite counts when it comes to good glucose control.

3. Exercise regularly. The ultimate goal is to do some form of exercise for 20-40 minutes daily. Exercise is essential to lowering your blood sugar levels, so it is an indirect way to lessen complications such as neuropathy. Simple things like parking farther away from the door to the grocery store than normal or using stairs instead of an elevator can make a lot of difference.

If you have nerve pain there are several options available for neuropathy treatment, depending on the severity of your condition and your symptoms.

Here are some options:

• Warm baths and frequent walks can alleviate nerve pain for some people. Talk with your physician to see if this would help. In some cases people who have open sores or cuts on their feet may not be able to walk frequently.

• Talk to your physician about pain medication. Currently Cymbalta and Lyrica are the only approved medications for diabetic neuropathy however there are a variety of topical creams as well as over the counter pain medications that may be able to help.

• Acupuncture has been known to alleviate some pain associated with neuropathy

• Vitamin B-12 can work however you must take it in limited doses as it can cause its own neuropathies.

Once you have your neuropathy under control there are ways to control further damage to your nerves. These methods include:

• Keeping your blood sugar levels under control and avoiding large swings in glucose levels

• Eat a healthy balanced diet

• Regular exercise

• Take care of your feet as this is the most common spot for nerve damage




Julia L Hanf is a proud contributing author and writes articles about Neuropathy and its complications. Neuropathy is not to be taken lightly, it is an awful condition that affects thousands of people every year. You can lower your risk of Neuropathy by keeping your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels close to the target numbers.





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2012年8月29日 星期三

What is Diabetic Neuropathy?


Every year millions of people around the world are affected by diabetes Along with the more normal symptoms and problems diabetes is known for there are also additional conditions that not everyone may be aware of. Diabetic neuropathy is one such condition that those with diabetes must be aware of.

The question many people ask is what is diabetic neuropathy? In short it is a condition which affects the ability of the peripheral nerves to function correctly. This usually occurs in the toes in feet first and can lead to numbness, tingling and painful burning sensations in the affected areas.

Diabetic neuropathy is a serious condition that all diabetics need to be cognizant of. There are a number of serious problems that can arise as a result of having this condition. Because one of the major symptoms is a numbing of the feet those with diabetes need to have a regular foot inspection schedules everyday. Any injury to the foot can go unnoticed until it turns into a bigger problem. For instance even a small cut that goes untreated can become infected and turn gangrenous, resulting in either part or all of the foot being amputated.

At the first signs of diabetic neuropathy it is important for the diabetic to seek a consultation with their doctor. Ignoring the problem is not an option as it can quickly lead to limb and life threatening problems. It is important that your doctor is knowledgeable in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy because while it is treatable there is not a cure. Learning proper foot care and identifying potential problems is key to treating this condition.

It is also important to contact the American Diabetes Association and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation for further information. These two organizations will be able to provide literature and strategies for dealing with diabetic neuropathy. The more knowledge one has regarding this disorder the better prepared they will be to deal with all contingencies.

In order to effectively combat the problems brought about by diabetic neuropathy the diabetic must remain ever vigilant of the signs and symptoms that this condition can bring.




To learn more about diabetic neuropathy please visit the web site Diabetic Diet Plans by Clicking Here.





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Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment? - Want to Know How?


The diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage to body extremities, the feet and hands for example, plus nerve damage to organs, digestive tract and the heart for example. The irony part is that some diabetics do not have pain symptoms, whereas others may feel dizziness or diarrhea, tingling sensation, indigestion, burning plus other symptoms.

Below Are The Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment Options

*The treatment for diabetic neuropathy first option is to control the blood glucose levels so there are not erratic highs and lows. Management includes diet and exercise, plus medication if prescribed.

* To stay away from indigestion, medical doctors suggest that diabetes victims should eat lesser meals and limit fat and foods high in fiber. Also your physician may recommend erythromycin.

* Your physician may recommend antidepressants Paxil or Cymbalta for example for diabetic neuropathy treatment if the person is having nerve pain.

*You have to slowly learn how to sit or stand as it can help with dizziness. Also blood pressure medications possibly will benefit the diabetic too.

*Diabetics can make use of creams for skin pain, particularly the feet. A typical cream is capsaicin cream. Patches, for instance lidocaine, are helpful on the feet too.

The Diabetic Neuropathy Facts

One most severe complications of diabetes is the nerve damage been caused by diabetes. In the long run, diabetes sufferers can develop nerve damage all over the body. The diabetes neuropathy can cause mild uneasiness for several folks, whereas for others this disorder is disabling and at times critical.

Below Are The Diabetic Neuropathy Symptoms

The diabetic neuropathy symptoms are determined by the type and on which nerves that got affected. The symptoms comprise muscle coordination problems, indigestion, weakness, numbness, pain or tingling (generally in the feet or hands), nausea and bladder problems. The pain could be severe and is worse at night frequently.

How to prevent it By keeping your blood sugar under good control can delay or prevent diabetic neuropathy. You need to keep to a hale and hearty diet, also keeping blood pressure in hand and staying active can as well help lessen your risk of developing this disorder.




It may interest you to know that prolonged blood sugar extremes blood sugar that's either too high or too low for too long may cause various conditions, all of which can lead to a diabetic coma.

So, if you are already a diabetic then choosing an effective diabetes treatment is an essential part of treating your diabetes. Diabetes Reversal Report is 100% safe, natural, and effective ways you can manage and even fully recover from your diabetes... so that you will not have to take insulin again, or have to suffer painfully dull diets ever again!

You get 2 FREE Bonus Reports (Worth $57.00) if you order today, $20 DISCOUNT and order risk-FREE with a 60-DAY money-back guarantee. Check this http://www.diabetes-reserval-report.blogspot.com for the product REVIEW and useful Diabetes Management Tips your doctor does not want you to know.





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Diabetic Neuropathy - The Cost is More Than the Money


Diabetic neuropathy is one complication of diabetes with symptoms like tingling or numbness in hands and feet. The workers among the participants who have this condition lose about 1.4 hours a week which when calculated in dollar amount lost is equivalent to $3.65 billions per year.

The number of lost hours is more than two times of the time lost by diabetics with neuropathy than the employees who do not manifest the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. This is the reason why the first group is much more expected to be without a job.

This study conducted by Geisinger Center for health research looked at 19,076 workers that included 1003 who had diabetes. Among this group, 38% reported tingling or numbness in their hands or feet. They compared the figures and found the lost time related to health was 18% higher among diabetics that reported the tingling or numbness sensations and the figure for the diabetics without the symptoms, is only 5% higher.

And this is the part of the finding that is difficult to accept. When the investigators compared the figures for the diabetics and the non-diabetics the result is that those with diabetes were about two times more to be unemployed than those without this condition.

Diabetic neuropathy as we know it has its cost to both patients and the society as immeasurable. What is this condition all about anyway? It consists of an assortment of syndromes affecting the motor nerve, autonomic and sensory functions.

The most common of this is what they call polyneuropathy which is the chief risk factor for ulceration in the foot. This could even lead to amputation. This is real because the forecast is that by 2010, globally there will be over 220 million diabetics.

Having said that, the estimate for people who have had this condition for 25 years and will develop diabetic neuropathy is in the vicinity of 50%. In 1986, USA spent approximately $240 million in the care of neuropathies. This amount will only increase with the rising trend of diabetes.

There is a need to identify the risk factors associated with diabetic neuropathy before the interventions can be laid out. Around 50% of diabetics have peripheral neuropathy which makes them susceptible to foot ulceration. Around 15% of these cases lead to amputation.

Speaking of cost, not only is the condition painful physically but also the quality of life is affected in a profound way. To avoid the pain for instance, the diabetics may stop their daily activities like going to work or visiting family and friends. This can make them anxious and eventually, they may become depressed.

So my friends, what does this mean to all of us? In my humble opinion, we have to continue with our lifestyle changes of eating less and moving more and follow the doctors' orders regarding medications and such. And let's keep monitoring our blood sugar level. Why? Because if we keep them as close to the normal target as possible, we will get rid of diabetic neuropathy.




Please visit these sites for more diabetes help:

Diabetic Neuropathy

Neuropathy

Brief Biography: Dr. Guzman worked for the Atlantic Health Corporation and was consultant to St. Joseph's Hospital, Sussex Mental Health Clinic, and St. Stephen Mental Health Clinic for many years. He was Director of Forensic Psychiatry at Centracare for ten years and published numerous articles in the Journal of the American College of Forensic Psychiatry and other medical magazines.

Copyright c December 15, 2008 Roger Guzman, M.D. (Diabetic Neuropathy, The Cost is More Than the Money) All Rights Reserved. You may copy and publish this article as long as the text, the author's name, the active links and this notice remain the same.





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2012年8月28日 星期二

Diabetic Neuropathy: What You Can't Feel Can Hurt You


Diabetic neuropathy, the condition of ongoing loss of sensation in the feet, the hands, and other parts of the sensory nervous system, is a particular challenge to the medical profession. From their earliest training, doctors learn how to diagnose and develop treatment plans on the basis of pain as a system. In diabetic neuropathy, however, not feeling pain is the symptom. It's very difficult for doctors, and diabetics, to treat a condition characterized by what the diabetic does not feel.

Diabetic neuropathy is depressingly common. Among type 2 diabetics who have diabetes for 10 years or more, about 50 per cent develop neuropathy.

Loss of sensation in the feet is particularly problematic. Cuts, scrapes, and scratches, along with something as simple as dry skin, can present open avenues to infection. Infectious microorganisms, as you have probably heard over and over again, thrive on sugar. Diabetes presents a "sweet" environment for the growth of infectious bacteria. When there is limited sensation in the feet, a simple infection can cause serious tissue damage in a very short time, untreated because it is unnoticed. Up to 25 per cent of type 2 diabetics eventually develop foot ulcers, and sometimes the very first diagnosis of type 2 diabetes occurs only when a foot has to be amputated.

Although the very best prevention of diabetic neuropathy is keeping blood sugar levels under control, there are many routes to treating and reversing neuropathy even after it occurs. The one thing to remember is, just as different diabetics respond best to different diets and different medications, no two diabetics experience diabetic nerve damage in the same way, either. You may have to try more than one method--in addition to keeping your blood sugar levels well controlled--to turn neuropathy around.




Want to know more about diabetes glucose level?
Do you have diabetes leg pain or cramp? Learn more on diabetes leg pain.





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Diabetic Neuropathy, A Burden No One Has to Go Through


Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage that is a long term complication of diabetes. Throughout the body, there is a network of nerves that connect the brain to the skin, muscles and other organs. It is through these nerves that the brain can feel the pain. It is also through these nerves that the brain controls the muscles and does such work as breathing and digestion automatically.

High blood glucose levels can harm these nerves. Too much glucose can make the walls of the small blood vessels weak to the point that they are unable to nourish the nerves. This nerve damage caused by diabetes in hands and feet and other parts of the body is part of this condition. Sometimes it flares up suddenly, making people who suffer from it lose weight and become weak.

What are the causes of diabetic neuropathy? Authorities know the factors contributing to it; they do not really know for sure the exact cause. One factor they have isolated that contributes to it is excess blood glucose. This extra blood glucose leads to chemical changes in the nerves. This makes the nerves unable to send out messages to the different parts of the body.

The blood glucose damages the blood vessels making them unable to carry nutrients and oxygen to the nerves. This makes the blood vessels clogged up. Inherited factors could also be the cause which naturally make those concerned vulnerable to develop this condition.

Is diabetic neuropathy common? This condition can happen to those who have diabetes. Some diabetics develop this within ten years after they are diagnosed. The tendency to develop this condition goes up the longer one has diabetes. It is more common among those who smoke and over the 40-year old group who are not able to control their blood glucose levels.

What are the different kinds of diabetic neuropathy?


There is the damage to the sensory nerves which will make one unable to become aware of pain, change in temperature and texture. There is the damage to the nerves that are controlling the muscles leaving one weak. There is the damage to the autonomic nerves which increases the heart rate. Some men with this condition may be unable to have an erection.

The signs and symptoms are as follows:


Burning pain that is on and off. Crawling feeling Feeling of numbness, tingling, pain or any combination Aching or stabbing pain that is worst at night.

What is the treatment for diabetic neuropathy? To reduce the signs and symptoms, blood glucose control is a must. The physician may also prescribe drugs to ease the pain. There are different medications that can reduce the burning pain. Since reaction to the change in the temperature is reduced, be careful not to get burned when using an electric blanket or bathing.

There's another treatment for pain that is related to the nerve damage. And this is an over the counter topical cream like capsaicin. Others that are in the same family are Axsain, Zostrix and capsaicin-P. They are also available to relieve the pain.

Rubbing the above cream on the skin helps block the painful sensation. One can feel relief within two to four weeks after its first use. One needs to use this everyday in order to keep the pain from returning. Other treatments include biofeedback, acupuncture and relaxation techniques. Talk to the doctor as to which is the best fit among the treatment options of diabetic neuropathy.




Please visit these sites for more diabetes help:

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetes Leg Pain

Brief Biography: Dr. Guzman worked for the Atlantic Health Corporation and was consultant to St. Joseph's Hospital, Sussex Mental Health Clinic, and St. Stephen Mental Health Clinic for many years. He was Director of Forensic Psychiatry at Centracare for ten years and published numerous articles in the Journal of the American College of Forensic Psychiatry and other medical magazines.

Copyright c September 8, 2008 Roger Guzman, M.D.(Diabetic Neuropathy) All Rights Reserved. You may copy and publish this article as long as the text, the author's name, the active links and this notice remain the same.





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Diabetic Neuropathy: Understand What Your Doctor Means


Diabetic neuropathy, or the pathology of diabetic neuropathy, can appear mysterious and complicated to understand, for anyone who's first introduced to these terms. They are particularly difficult to understand for someone with a small amount of previous knowledge of the nervous system. You may be presenting to your doctor with a symptom like a certain pain, or loss of feeling in your feet, and instantly, your health care provider knows these as diabetic neuropathy symptoms. Most likely, you'll be confronted with some medical terms that you have never heard of previously. It seems that no matter how old we are, men and alike need to understand why we have a certain symptom, and the best way to treat it.

For example, maybe you have scheduled a physician visit due to pain, and your doctor instantly recognizes this as neuropathic pain, and starts to explain neuropathy affects which are related to diabetes. Additionally, in place of hearing about your levels of blood sugars, this talk has grown to talking about levels of sorbitol. It may be overwhelming for a patient to hear a barrage of new terms all at 1 time, or going from 1 subject to the other, such as flitting from discussing blood, to talking about a nerve. When doctors bring in new words to patients, such as nitric oxide and, it's not unheard of for a patient to leave the office with more questions than they went in with.

Diabetic neuropathy is actually divided into four groups: Peripheral neuropathy which affects the arms, hands, legs, feet, & toes; autonomic neuropathy affects the blood vessels & heart, the digestive system, urinary tract, sex organs, eyes, sweat glands & lungs; proximal neuropathy affects the hips, buttocks legs and thighs; & focal neuropathy which affects the lower back & pelvis, abdomen, chest, thighs, legs, feet, eyes, ears & facial muscles.

As you can see, diabetic neuropathy can affect the nerves throughout the body. Because of this, there can be several different kinds of symptoms. Because pain, numbness, sensitivity to temperatures, sweating, etc. are very noticeable symptoms of neuropathy from diabetes, there are several other more hard to determine signs that you can miss. This is why it's very important to inform your doctor of any physical changes you may notice.

Neuropathy may manifest in such a variety of ways that symptoms like high blood pressure, constipation, sexual dysfunction, blurry eyesight, heavy perspiration and so on, need to be assessed by a professional before they evidence themselves as, or are attributed to, diabetic neuropathy. In order to properly diagnose you, your physician can order specialized tests i.e. nerve conduction studies to see how well your nerves are transmitting and how the muscles surrounding them respond, use ultrasound to look at various organs, and they may check for a variance in your heart beat.




By understanding the diabestes abcs you will have a better chance to know if you have symptoms of diabetic neuropathy or any other diseases associated with diabetes.





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Diabetic Neuropathy - Nerve Damage From High Blood Sugars


A diagnosis of diabetes is not a guaranteed precursor towards the eventual complications of nerve damage on the hands or more frequently the feet of every individual. A careful diet now and a minimum of exercise daily can actually ward off most of the complications possible with this debilitating condition.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy, or nerve damage, is your body's way of telling you your blood sugars have been consistently running too high. Normally, after about three to five years post diagnosis and with consistent out of control blood sugars, the nerves running towards your hands or feet are susceptible to damage. Common symptoms reported are:

increased swelling and bloating in the wrists, legs, ankles and feet
a "pins and needles" prickling sensation or burning pain
ulcers, blisters or cuts will be very slow to heal
cuts and scrapes will rapidly downgrade to serious infections or open-sore wounds

Three Types Of Neuropathy

Different people... different forms at diagnosis for this condition. Some people may also notice they seem to have a combination of two of the forms of neuropathy. Whichever type, the symptoms need to be slowed down and reversed to halt the progression of this disease. Good diabetic care in the early stages can lead to a reversal of complications.

Autonomic Neuropathy affects any combination of nerves which control the body's involuntary functions. Some examples of this includes the bladder (urine control), the stomach and digestion of your foods, the sex organs or your heart and lung functions. Any of these, plus more, can lose their ability to perform their expected daily functions.

Motor Neuropathy is the most unusual type of diagnosis in diabetes. This patient will slowly notice a diminishing ability to control their muscle functions. You could lose your ability to walk, talk, move your hands or feet etc... Any body part reliant on the muscle groups for operation is in danger of losing all or part of its motor control.

Sensory Neuropathy is the most common in diagnosis. Many doctors commonly refer to this one as peripheral neuropathy. This is a slow gradual progression in loss of feeling along the nerve pathways from your brain to your hands and feet. Initial symptoms of pain, numbness and tingling leads to an eventual loss in your ability to differentiate heat and cold. By this stage, frostbite or heatstroke is an immediate concern. The patient's sensory perception in the affected body limb has been entirely lost. Stubbing your toe on a bedpost, getting a cut or scrape or even an accidental stepping on a bed of tacks or nails will be of no consequence because the patient could feel nothing.

The importance of differentiating your type of neuropathy can forestall dead and diseased cells from turning gangrenous which ultimately leads to an amputation. The necessity to halt the spread of poisonous toxins flowing all through your blood stream is urgent. Without this, it can lead to even bigger and harder problems to eliminate. Work with your doctor, determine your type and severity, then start implementing a good treatment program to safeguard your future.

The longer you wait, the worse the symptoms will get. Early treatment often can reduce or even reverse many of the difficulties of diabetic neuropathy. Do not assume, as many people commonly do, time and patience will give your body time to start feeling better. An immediate conference is needed with your doctor to set in motion an important therapy schedule to prevent the onslaught of any ever-escalating symptoms.




Kathi Robinson
The doctor has already mentioned neuropathy as your problem? Learn how to control and hopefully reduce your symptoms now for better future health at http://www.allergy-and-diabetic-health.com/neurological-symptoms-of-diabetes.html.





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2012年8月27日 星期一

Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment


If you are suffering from diabetes you will be familiar with the nerve pain called neuropathy. If you have experienced this pain then neuropathy treatment is vital. Neuropathy typically occurs over time and has been found to be due to prolonged high blood sugar levels, typically five years or more. There are other factors that can cause neuropathy but if you have been diagnosed with diabetes this may be the ultimate cause.

Some symptoms of neuropathy are obvious, such as pain in your extremities, most likely your feet. However, there are more subtle signs you may want to be aware of and treat. Such signs include tingling, numbness, erectile dysfunction and even diarrhea. How do you prevent neuropathy or treat the neuropathy you have? The best way to treat neuropathy is through blood sugar control.

Here are the most effective steps to take:

1. Monitor you glucose levels regularly. Commit to the amount of times your physician has recommended and keep a log of your levels throughout the day.

2. Eat right. A diet that helps alleviate nerve pain is basically no different from a good, healthy, balanced diet. A balanced diet outlines what you should eat, when you should eat, how much you should eat, and also allows for healthy snacks. Understandably, it's not always easy to watch everything you eat. Just remember that every bite counts when it comes to good glucose control.

3. Exercise regularly. The ultimate goal is to do some form of exercise for 20-40 minutes daily. Exercise is essential to lowering your blood sugar levels, so it is an indirect way to lessen complications such as neuropathy. Simple things like parking farther away from the door to the grocery store than normal or using stairs instead of an elevator can make a lot of difference.

If you have nerve pain there are several options available for neuropathy treatment, depending on the severity of your condition and your symptoms.

Here are some options:

• Warm baths and frequent walks can alleviate nerve pain for some people. Talk with your physician to see if this would help. In some cases people who have open sores or cuts on their feet may not be able to walk frequently.

• Talk to your physician about pain medication. Currently Cymbalta and Lyrica are the only approved medications for diabetic neuropathy however there are a variety of topical creams as well as over the counter pain medications that may be able to help.

• Acupuncture has been known to alleviate some pain associated with neuropathy

• Vitamin B-12 can work however you must take it in limited doses as it can cause its own neuropathies.

Once you have your neuropathy under control there are ways to control further damage to your nerves. These methods include:

• Keeping your blood sugar levels under control and avoiding large swings in glucose levels

• Eat a healthy balanced diet

• Regular exercise

• Take care of your feet as this is the most common spot for nerve damage




Julia L Hanf is a proud contributing author and writes articles about Neuropathy and its complications. Neuropathy is not to be taken lightly, it is an awful condition that affects thousands of people every year. You can lower your risk of Neuropathy by keeping your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels close to the target numbers.





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Type 2 Diabetes - What Is the Problem With Blood Sugar and Diabetic Neuropathy?


Prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels results in nerve damage leading to the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy: a family of nerve disorders that causes symptoms of tingling, pain and numbness. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, sixty to seventy percent of people with diabetes end up having some degree of diabetic neuropathy.

A diabetic may develop neuropathies anytime in their lifetime. However, it was noted that people who have had Type 2 diabetes for more than twenty-five years have the highest rates of diabetic neuropathy. And it is also true that most people who have painful neuropathies don't even realize they may have Type 2 diabetes. Often they don't find out until they visit their doctor to find out the reason for the pains they are experiencing. It could start off simply as a tingle in your toes and then progress up your legs.

What causes diabetic neuropathy?

There are several reasons for nerve damage taking place. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the nerves. The cells cannot live without oxygen so the neurons starve to death. Other factors such as:


abnormal levels of fat within the blood
blood vessel problems
autoimmune factors
excess weight
smoking, and
alcohol use

may also speed up the development of symptoms associated with neuropathy.

What are the most common symptoms?

Diabetic neuropathy results from nerve damage, therefore symptoms are usually seen in the nerves being affected by this problem. The most common symptoms of diabetic neuropathy includes:


tingling
muscle pain and weakness
numbness
burning pain
shooting pain
balance problems
loss of bladder control
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
frequent dizziness
impotence
vaginal dryness in women

What are the risk factors?

1. Poor blood sugar control: The MayoClinic.com considers poor blood sugar control as the top risk factor for neuropathy in diabetics. So, if you are a diabetic, you should always keep your blood sugar in check to prevent the possible onset of nerve damage.

2. The number of years of being a diabetic: The older you are, the more likely you are to develop nerve pain.

3. Kidney problems: Diabetes causes damage to the function of your kidneys. And once your kidneys begin malfunctioning, toxins may not be eliminated efficiently from your body resulting in further damage to your nerves.

4. Cigarette smoking: Smoking decreases the blood supply to your hands and feet by narrowing and hardening your blood vessel walls. With decreased blood supply to your extremities, poor wound healing and damage to your nerves usually follows.

How can diabetic neuropathy be treated?

According to Mayoclinic.com, there is no cure. The focus for the management of neuropathy is then to slow the progression of this problem. While lowering blood sugar levels will eventually help reduce your pain and may help to prevent the type of severe damage that will be irreversible, this will take time.

If you happen to have any of the above mentioned symptoms, visiting your doctor is the best option. A few simple blood tests could determine whether you have Type 2 diabetes, at which point you could then start to repair the nerves. The earlier your blood sugar level is controlled, the lesser will be the damage to your nerves.




To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.

Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide





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Diabetic Neuropathy - A Serious Complication Of Diabetes


Diabetic neuropathy is a serious condition that directly impacts the nerves of the body. Individuals who suffer from the complications associated with diabetes often experience neuropathy. Generally, an individual who suffers from diabetes has a sugar level that remains consistently high. As time progresses, it is very likely that these glucose levels will begin to cause damage to the nerves and other areas of the body.

Here, you will learn about this particular form of neuropathy, the symptoms that are involved, as well as the treatment options that are available. If you suffer from this condition, or even suspect that you do, the information contained here may prove to be especially helpful.

This specific condition can be broken down into three further types of neuropathy. These are that which is focal, peripheral, and then autonomic. When it is focal, it means that one single nerve has been damaged. This can be virtually anywhere in the body. However, with diabetics, it is common to see it in the leg and the foot area. Peripheral means that the nerves that are damaged are in the peripheral system of the body. This type of damage is progressive, not immediate. The last type, autonomic, affects this nerve system in the body.

There are a number of symptoms that are associated with neuropathy. The following lists some of the most common associated signs that the nerves have been damaged in one way or another:

o Many individuals who suffer from nerve damage as a result of glucose levels in the body suffer from fluctuating body temperatures. This may result in sweating profusely, being extremely cold, or a unique combination of both.

o.Bladder complications are often quite common when the nerves have received damage. Accidents that involve inappropriate urination may become evident.

o There are a number of people who claim to experience complications with the digestive system. This can range from simple belching to severe vomiting.

o Neuropathy may lead to the development of sexual complications. Many men may experience issues with premature ejaculation and achieving a full erection. Women may experience the inability to feel sensations in a sexual manner, and even dryness in the area of the vagina.

o Complications with the circulatory system may also be experienced. This may include improper circulation in the body, heart problems, and similar health concerns.

What makes this especially dangerous is that with nerve damage you may not even know if certain problems exist. For instance diabetics often develop ulcers on their feet. If the nerves are damaged you may not be aware the ulcer exists until it becomes severe.

There are a number of ways that the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy may be relieved. It is important to know that any damage that is present will persist. However there are ways to ensure that the damage does not advance to a serious stage.

First and foremost, glucose levels in the body must be maintained. Then, depending on the symptoms that are experienced, various types of pain relievers, blood thinners, and prescription medications may be implemented. For disorders related to sexual functioning, creams and lubricants may be recommended. If you suffer from this devastating condition, it is absolutely vital that you work closely with a professional doctor in order to ensure that you are engaging in the proper treatment.




To learn more about diabetic neuropathy visit http://www.diabetes-diabetic-diet-plans.com , a popular website designed to educate people about some of the common problems associated with the disease. You'll also find tips on diabetic cooking so you can eat healthy and tasty meals.





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2012年8月26日 星期日

The Role of Alpha Lipoic Acid in Diabetic Neuropathy


According to Mayo clinic pain research has led to discoveries that alpha lipoic acid may work in relieving painful symptoms. Much can be done to alleviate the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy and prevent further damage.

What is Alpha Lipoic Acid?

It's a naturally occurring fatty acid in our bodies. It's also known as lipoic acid, thioctic acid or abbreviated as ALA but shouldn't be confused with alpha linolenic acid.

Alpha lipoic acid is found in most foods especially in animal internal organs such as the kidney, liver and heart. It can also be sourced from plants such as spinach, broccoli, peas, Brussels sprout, rice bran and yeast extract. Because it is covalently bound, the naturally occurring type is not available so that extracting it from natural sources yields poor results. As such, supplements in the market are chemically synthesized.

The chemical structure of alpha lipoic acid shows 2 thiol or sulfur groups. When reduced the result is called dihydrolipoic acid and when in an oxidized form alpha lipoic acid. It has an asymmetric carbon and can result in two isomers that are "mirror images of each other," the R-LA and S-LA. The R-isomer is produced in the body and bound to protein. Supplements may contain both L and R forms.

Functions of Alpha Lipoic Acid in the Body

It is a fatty acid and as such it is used by the body to produce energy for the body's functions. It converts glucose into energy.

It is one potent antioxidant. This characteristic is significant in neuropathy. If compared to most antioxidants, it's both water and fat soluble. Being so, it easily penetrates nerve cells and protects the integrity of nerve cells from oxidative damage. It scavengers for radicals and protects the integrity of the nerve cells. Another one of its significant function is its ability to renew vitamin C and glutathione when these antioxidants are in low supply. Glutathione is another essential antioxidant that eliminates harmful toxins. They cooperate together to protect the harmful effects of free radicals and protect the integrity of cells from oxidative damage.

Research on Alpha Lipoic Acid and Neuropathy

Preliminary studies suggest that it may help in diabetic neuropathy. In one of the largest studies, 181 people took 600 mg, 1200 mg or 1800 mg of alpha lipoic acid or a placebo. After 5 weeks, those who consumed the supplement have shown improved symptoms. A 600 mg daily dose was best tolerated which also provided the best benefits.

Research conducted by the Linus Pauling Institute has shown the following evidence regarding the role of alpha lipoic acid in diabetes and in diabetic neuropathy:

· improves glucose utilization in type 2 Diabetes mellitus by enhancing insulin sensitivity. The result of three different research studies as reported by the institute suggested that the maximum effective dose is 600 mg /day. The R-isomer of ALA may be more effective in improving insulin sensitivity than the L-isomer.

· by some mechanism it increases glucose uptake in fat and muscle cells

· improves the function and conduction of neurons in diabetes

· A neuropathic complication characterized by reduced heart rate variability was "significantly improved" by treatment of 800 mg daily of the racemic form.

· Beneficial effects are related mostly to its antioxidant properties. As an antioxidant, alpha lipoic acid scavenges reactive oxygen and nitrogen species that can cause damage to DNA, proteins and lipids in cell membranes. An antioxidant such as Vitamin C, glutathione and Coenzyme Q10 can be oxidized when scavenging harmful free radicals. It is a potent reducing agent capable of renewing the potency and ability of Vitamin C, glutathione plus Coenzyme Q10. Moreover, it increases glutathione synthesis. Alpha lipoic acid and dihydrolipoic acid also inhibit copper and iron mediated oxidative damage. It prevents excess iron and copper accumulation in the body and is a good treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

· may help in diabetic end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis.

· Research show a significant improvement in electrophysiological tests of nerve conduction after two years of treatment with 1200/mg or 600/mg than those on placebo.

· Apart from its beneficial role in diabetes, it helps in metabolic syndrome, halts Alzheimer's progression and age-related cognitive dysfunction and many others.

Recommended Alpha Lipoic Acid Dose

As you age the capacity of your body to produce alpha lipoic acid diminishes and you can benefit from its numerous benefits.

The Linus Pauling institute recommends the R-isomer of 200-400 mg daily for healthy people.

For diabetic neuropathy, the maximum recommended dose is 600 - 1,800 mg /day of the R-isomer.

For cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy a suggested oral dose of 800/day of the R-isomer also is suggested.

Bottom Line

If you decide to supplement your anti-diabetic medication with alpha lipoic acid in the hope of treating your diabetic neuropathy ask your doctors' recommendation especially if you are taking other medications to lower blood sugar levels.

This antioxidant can help in your diabetes management. Nevertheless, it's very important to remember that management of diabetes is a lifelong commitment. Take note of your diet, exercise daily and monitor your blood glucose levels regularly. Take your anti-diabetic medications or insulin as directed by your doctor.

Conscientiously observing these things can prevent complications and stop them in their tracks once they have started.




A B Stephens is a chemical engineer by profession. Her passion to help diabetics stems from the fact that members of her family and her husband's family are diabetics. They launched http://www.typefreediabetes.com in 2007 - a one-stop shop for people who have diabetes - a lifestyle store complete with whatever a diabetic would need to live his/her life to the fullest! Numerous studies have proven that Alpha Lipoic Acid nutritional supplements have been shown to help in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. http://www.typefreediabetes.com/Nutritional-Supplement-Alpha-Lipoic-Acid-200mg-p/222a.htm





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Diabetic Neuropathy


The recent estimate puts the number of people suffering from diabetes in the US at 26 million, with almost a quarter of them not yet knowing that they have diabetes. Simply put, diabetes is a disease characterized by poor control of blood glucose levels in the body. Of the many complications of diabetes mellitus, the one we would focus here is Diabetic Neuropathy.

So what is diabetic neuropathy and what problems will a patient suffering from diabetes will have if he develops neuropathy? Simply put, diabetic neuropathy in most cases refers to the damage to nerves due to prolonged diabetes. The patient having diabetic neuropathy may have numbness, tingling and pins-and-needles sensations.

Another common problem that comes with loss of sensations in the lower limbs is results in causing non healing ulcers in the feet, which may be infected, sometime severe enough to need amputation to save a person's life. Some people may have a different presentation with pain as main feature, and the pain may be in form of mild burning or aching sensation to sometimes very severe. Later even weakness and wasting of muscles may develop and patients may have foot drop or wrist drop in diabetes. Sometimes diabetic neuropathy affects nerves responsible for movements of eyes. More diverse symptoms ranging from mild ones like increased heart rate, difficulty in swallowing food, diarrhea, constipation and involuntary leakage of urine to more severe problems like impotence, ejaculation into bladder, sudden hypotension on standing from lying down or sitting position and even sudden cardiac death may occur.

What makes Diabetic Neuropathy more worrisome is that there are not many satisfactory treatment options that provide immediate relief available at this time. Prescribed diet and exercises along with medications or insulin or both to control blood glucose levels should be religiously followed but they have little or sometimes no role in reversing the damage to nerves that have already happened. Only reversible forms are the one that involve single nerves (mononeuropathies) or nerve roots.

People suffering from diabetic neuropathy should not smoke or drink alcohol as these neurotoxins and may worsen the neuropathy. They should also take vitamin supplementation (B12 and folate). People should also check their foot daily for any calluses or ulcers and preferably wear special foot wears designed for diabetes patients. In cases of long-standing painful neuropathy, some medications are often found to be effective. Other treatment options mainly focus on the symptoms due to neuropathy like sudden fall in blood pressure on standing up is managed by using support stockings, adequate salt intake, avoiding dehydration and some drugs if necessary. Some newer treatment options in form of new drugs may be effective in some of the patients. Thus the control of blood glucose levels in diabetes to prevent neuropathy is of paramount importance.




For more information on how to effectively manage type II diabetes the natural way starting today, visit http://www.iphysicalmedicine.com Dr. Jonathan Berns, D.C. offers effective solutions to help you maintain a healthy blood sugar level. Visit Integrated Physical Medicine of Tampa and the Tampa Diabetes Program to learn more about how you can begin to manage your Type 2 Diabetes.





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Diabetic Neuropathy Causes and Remedies to Help You Ease the Pain


Diabetes neuropathy has caused me pain in my feet for quite some time. Maybe seven or eight months of tingling in my lower extremities has On occasion I had severe pain. Before my condition got worse I started to reverse the tide after seeing an Acupuncturist who pointed me in the right direction. My course of action is something anyone can do. I will share what worked for me later in this article.

Diabetes neuropathy causes and symptoms.

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage. Diabetes neuropathy usually appears in your legs and feet. If you have had diabetes for an extended period of time it is likely that you will get neuropathy. Tingling feeling in your limbs will be one of the symptoms of this form of diabetes. Internally, if your organs in your body are disturbed by neurology suffer from vomiting, diarrhea, bloating and abdominal pain. You may also be ill with sexual problems, dizziness, weakness and urinary concerns.

Diabetic neuropathy has a few different classes.

There are three kinds of diabetic neuropathy, with peripheral neuropathy being the most common. Peripheral reduces capability to sense pain temperature, touch and vibration in distinct areas of your body. If you have peripheral you probably are being affected in the lower parts of your legs and in your feet. Potential problems include ulcers bone and joint defects and infection.

The nerves control the involuntary workings of your body. These include heartbeat, sweating, digestion, urination and some sexual functions. If these are your issues then there may have been some damage to the nerves that control those tasks. Autonomic neuropathy is also very common.

Focal neuropathy affects a single nerve. Usually it is in the foot, thigh or wrist. The single nerve may also affect your eyesight if it is one of the nerves that control eyesight in your back or chest.

Visiting your health care provider would make sense. You may need a neurological examination or an electromyogram (EMG) to determine what is the problem. Knowing what to treat is part of the treatment.

As I told you in the beginning of this article I am informing you of what has been working for me. My diet has changed to one of all raw foods. When I saw a doctor she told me that I would need to be on this diet for approximately six months. So far I have been eating uncooked fruits, vegetables and some nuts for three weeks as of May 5, 2007. I am experiencing relief. My feet feel and look better. There is less pain and less of a tingling feeling in my lower extremities. Hey, I am getting petty good diversifying salads I am making. I will keep you apprised as to how I am doing with my diet and condition.

Beating diabetes naturally. That's the ticket. Grab your free information. It is in the author's area of this article.




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A Cardiac Diet That Promises to Arrest Diabetic Neuropathy


America is one of the unhealthiest nations. We are actually, the fattest nation. We take the lead in obesity. It's no wonder we are afflicted with diseases such as diabetic neuropathy. Here are some sobering statistics. Did you know that 64% of people are overweight in America? 27% of Americans are obese. Obesity is responsible for 325,000 deaths per year. 750 million people worldwide are overweight. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and is weight related. More than 20 million Americans have diabetes. Another sobering fact: 54 million Americans have prediabetes. What are the risk factors for getting diabetes?

1) Obesity

2) Poor diet

3) Lack of exercise

4) A diet high in refined carbohydrates

5) Heredity

6) Ethnicity

7) High Triglycerides

8) High Cholesterol

Of the eight risk factors listed above, we have control over six! If we watched our diets, we would not have to deal with diabetes, or diabetic neuropathy.

Diabetes does not only occur in human beings. There is such thing as feline diabetic neuropathy. First, let me explain what neuropathy is. Then we can talk about cats having diabetes - in that order. Neuropathy involves the deterioration of the nerve cells. It is a disease of the autonomic nervous system. It can be caused by diseases such as kidney failure, diabetes, or cancer. It can also be the result of ingestion of toxic drugs. Diabetes is characterized by an excessive amount of sugar in the blood. Neuropathy occurs when a diabetic is in chronic pain. The pain can be anywhere on the body, but it usually is in the foot or leg. Although rare, feline diabetic neuropathy is when a cat has diabetes. Just like in humans, the cat's blood sugar is extraordinarily high. Don't ask me how, as I don't know of any cat's that eat candy bars or ice cream cones. The symptoms are the same as human beings. The nervous system begins to deteriorate, their hind legs become weak, and the cat begins to limp. The problem with detecting feline neuropathy is that the cat cannot talk. She cannot tell you that her legs feel numb or that she has tingling sensation. By the time the owner realizes that something is amiss in the cat's gait, the disease has already progressed.

Diabetic Neuropathy has More Than One Symptom

Foot and leg pain are frequent symptoms of neuropathy - whether it be in cats or humans. The foot or leg becomes numb. As the disease of the nervous system progresses, the diabetic loses the ability to feel vibration, feel temperature, and in general, a complete loss of sensation.

Treatment Does Not Vary with Neuropathy in Felines

Amazingly, the treatment for neuropathy in felines is no different than it is for human beings.

There is Medication Available for Diabetics Suffering from Neuropathy But No Cure

Medication for neuropathy can range from basic physical therapy, to anti depressants. Although anti depressants are used for depression, the medicinal properties in anti depressants can be used for non depressive cases. To date, there is no cure for diabetic neuropathy. But there are things you can do to alleviate and/or prevent diabetic neuropathy. The most important thing is incorporating good dietary habits.




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2012年8月25日 星期六

Symptoms of the Different Types of Diabetic Neuropathy


You've been feeling that numbness at your toes for more than a couple of weeks now. The numbness comes with a peculiar feeling of tingling burning sensation. At night, a sharp jabbing pain at your feet wakes you up. You have difficulty in walking due to pain. Worse, you can't distinguish between cold or hot and your extremities don't have any feeling at all. It can be terrifying! Actually, it's one more complication of your diabetes.

Peripheral Neuritis (pronounced /new.righ'tis/)

Peripheral neuritis is the most common type of neuropathy (pronounced /new.rop'uth-ee/) occurring among diabetics. It affects your toes, feet and later your arms and hands. As you lose your capacity to feel any pain in your extremities serious complications set in. You can hurt your foot on something without knowing it. An open wound results. Too much sugar in your blood sets the stage for infection. Then, it leads to ulceration and deformities. When necrosis or tissue death occurs, your leg will have to be amputated.

The manifestations of other types of neuropathy depend upon what types of nerves are affected. Apart from peripheral neuritis other types of diabetic neuropathy are autonomic (pronounced /aw''tuh.nom'ick/) neuropathy, radiculoplexus (pronounced /ra.dick''yoo.lo.pleck'sus/) neuropathy and mononeuropathy (pronounced /mon''o-new.rop'uth-ee/).

Autonomic Neuropathy

Autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves controlling the functions of your body organs. Your autonomic nervous system is responsible in the functioning of your heart, lungs, stomach, intestines, sex organs, bladder and eyes. When the nerves of your bladder are affected you'll experience urinary incontinence. On the other hand, when your stomach nerves are involved you'll feel slow stomach emptying termed as gastroparesis with nausea, loss of appetite and vomiting. Constipation or uncontrolled diarrhea can also be symptoms.

When the nerves of sex organs are involved, males suffer erectile dysfunction while females sexual difficulties.

The nerves of your heart can be affected too and your body will have difficulty in adjusting to blood pressure and heart rate. You'll feel a fast heart rate at rest. You'll undergo a sudden drop in blood pressure from a sitting to a standing position that can cause faintness or lightheadedness.

There would be problems regulating your body temperature. If your eye nerves are affected, you'll have trouble adjusting from light to dark. Dangerously, your body might not detect low blood sugar levels. When this happens, weakness or fatigue sets in. In extreme cases, hypoglycemic coma can occur.

Radiculoplexus Neuropathy

Radiculoplexus neuropathy is also termed as diabetic amyotrophy (pronounced /am''eye.ot'ruh.fee/), femoral neuropathy or proximal neuropathy. It affects the nerves in your thighs, hips, buttocks or legs. The symptoms appear suddenly and severely. The muscles affected become weak then atrophy and you'll have to struggle rising from a sitting position. If your abdomen is affected swelling occurs. Over time, weight loss ensues.

Mononeuropathy

Mononeuropathy involves damage to a specific nerve. When your facial nerve is affected, paralysis of one side of your face occurs termed as Bell's palsy. Other symptoms include pain in your foot, shin and front of thigh; difficulty focusing your eyes, double vision and pain behind your eye; chest or abdominal pain. Compression neuropathy can happen such as in carpal tunnel syndrome. You'll feel numbness and tingling especially in your thumb, index, middle or ring fingers plus weakness in your hand.

Why Neuropathy Occurs

Diabetic neuropathy slowly ensues from years of uncontrolled blood sugar levels that destroy the nerves. In some cases, smoking and alcohol abuse contribute to the development of neuropathy. Medical experts say a genetic disposition is to blame and sometimes the cause is totally unknown.

Management of Neuropathy

According to the Mayo clinic the goals in the management of neuropathy is to slow the progression of the condition, to relieve pain, manage other complications that may arise and to restore the function of the body area affected.

The best way to slow progression is to tighten control of your blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar levels daily. Your blood sugar levels should be between 70- 130 mg/dl before meals and no less that 180 mg/dl two hours after meals. Undergo Hemoglobin A1C testing every three months and your values shouldn't be more than 7 percent.

Take your anti-diabetic medications as prescribed by your health care provider. Couple this with the right diet, exercise and healthy lifestyle habits.

To relieve pain, your doctor will recommend medications such as anti-seizure medication, anti-depressants, topical anesthetics or opioids which have been shown to work well.

Antispasmodics can ease incontinence. Consuming smaller but frequent meals can alleviate digestive problems. The incidence of low blood pressure on standing can be avoided by standing up slowly and drinking extra fluids.

Medications can restore functions of organs such as in erectile dysfunction. When they aren't effective men can resort to vacuuming. In women, lubrications can help.

Alternative Treatment

Alternative treatments work well too such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, acupuncture and biofeedback. Alternative treatments such as food supplements can complement medications. Clinical studies had proven that they can help in alleviating symptoms and slowing the progress of neuropathy. Alpha lipioc acid, evening primrose oil, acetyl L-carnitine, B complex vitamins, quercetin, bromelain, capsaicin and black currant seed oil are some of them.

The best way to prevent diabetic neuropathy is to maintain normal blood glucose levels daily. Continue your diabetic medications or insulin as instructed by your doctor, pay attention to your diet, weave in exercise in your daily routine and maintain healthy lifestyle habits.




A B Stephens is a chemical engineer by profession. Her passion to help diabetics stems from the fact that members of her family and her husband's family are diabetics. They launched http://www.typefreediabetes.com in 2007 - a one-stop shop for people who have diabetes - a lifestyle store complete with whatever a diabetic would need to live his/her life to the fullest! Nutritional supplements have been shown through clinical studies that they can complement medications in managing diabetic neuropathy. http://www.typefreediabetes.com/Diabetic-Neuropathy-Supplements-s/11556.htm





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Natural Approaches to Cope With Diabetic Neuropathy


Diabetic neuropathy is a condition characterized by nerve damage in feet as a result of a long history of diabetes. Neuropathy in feet and hands usually develops in patients with poorly controlled blood sugar, arterial pressure and who are significantly overweight. Individuals affected by this unfortunate condition will develop toe numbness, significant loss of feelings in both feet and hands, tingling and burning sensations especially at the end of the day.

Symmetrical presentation of diabetic neuropathy in both feet or both hands is a very important clue for your doctor to be able to identify the exact cause of your symptoms. In case you are experiencing tingling and loss of feeling only in one foot or one hand, the actual culprit for your condition might be of other nature.

In medical history nerve damage due to elevated blood sugar levels is classified into four groups depending on what nerve areas are affected causing the specific symptoms presented in a patient. Autonomic neuropathy significantly affects digestive function leading to bowel, bladder and even sexual problems. Peripheral neuropathy will cause discomfort in upper and lower extremities, numbness and burning feelings. Focal nerve damage can show up in virtually any area of the body. Finally, proximal type of neuropathy leads to nerve damage in the hip area, namely, buttocks, hips and thighs.

Traditional medicine offers very little support for diabetic patients and resorts to merely managing the symptoms and failing to look deeply into the actual underlying causes of this condition.

Alternative medicine, on the other hand, offers a myriad of natural approaches and remedies to manage both causes and symptoms of the diabetic neuropathy.

Alpha Lipoic acid has been proven to be very effective in managing diabetes and its symptoms. Taking 20 to 50 mg daily is in most cases sufficient in controlling neuropathy especially if initiated at earlier stages of the disease.

Acetyl L-carnitine is another important natural remedy for naturopathy and works by addressing muscle pain and improves mood. If taken at doses of 100 to 300 mgs 3 times per week, it was shown to not cause side effects of over stimulation.

B group vitamins are essential ingredients in any natural treatment of diabetic nerve damage, they additionally support heart function, promote good mood, mental clarity and give you lots of energy naturally.

Ginko Biloba extract has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and should be included as your treatment for managing pain and discomfort associated with diabetic neuropathy. This traditional supplement significantly improves cognitive function and improves blood circulation.

The most common natural treatments to manage pain that comes hand in hand with nerve damage is acupuncture and massage. Both of these natural techniques will promote a sense of relaxation and well-being triggering the production of endorphins, natural pain killers.

Diet and moderate exercise are one of the most important natural ways to deal with neuropathy along with taking herbs and vitamins. All these factors will bring your blood sugar under control, since poorly controlled blood sugar will cause further deterioration of nerve fibers leading to worsening of your symptoms.




Caroline Hawthorn is one of the authors of the new health information blog www.HealthArticles101.com.





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