Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment - What Can You Expect?

Diabetic neuropathy refers to a group of nerve disorders that are the result of diabetes. This often occurs in people who have had the disease for about 20 to 25 years, when nerve damage may have begun to occur. Diabetic neuropathy requires monitoring and treatment because it can be especially uncomfortable, causing tingling, numbing and pain in the hands, arms, legs and feet. Very often, patients feel weakness in these areas of the body. Diabetic neuropathy can also affect vital organs such as the heart, sex organs and the digestive track.

Who is at Risk?

The longer a patient has had diabetes, the higher the risk he will develop the disorder. It is also common in people who are over 40 years old, overweight, have hypertension and those who have high levels of fat in the blood.

What is the Treatment for Diabetic Neuropathy?

The goal of a treatment for diabetic neuropathy is to obtain relief from the discomfort caused by the disorder and to prevent further damage to nerves and tissues. The first thing that a patient must do to treat diabetic neuropathy is to regulate his blood glucose levels. By keeping blood glucose within normal range, further damage to the nerves can be minimized or avoided. This may be done by regularly monitoring blood glucose for any changes, eating a sensible, healthy diet, getting enough exercise and taking medications such as insulin injections and oral drugs.

During the initial stages of treatment when the blood glucose is regulated, symptoms for diabetic neuropathy might worsen. As treatment progresses, symptoms become less severe and should not be too bothersome to the patient.

Treatment for Pain

In cases where diabetic neuropathy causes pain, tingling, numbness or burning, painkillers such as acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen may be prescribed. Other options such as anti-convulsant oral medications and capsaicin-containing topical creams may also be used. Severe pain may be addressed with codeine, although its use should be limited and strictly monitored due to its addictive properties.

An alternative to pain treatment in diabetic neuropathy is the use of TENS or transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation, where mild electricity is used to intercept pain signals. Other alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, biofeedback, hypnosis and relaxation techniques may also be used.



Treatment for Gastrointestinal Problems

Although some people with diabetic neuropathy don't always suffer from symptoms, there are some who have problems with indigestion, accompanied by nausea and vomiting. For mild symptoms, the usual step would be for patients to avoid fatty foods, eat frequent meals in small amounts and reduce their fiber intake. For severe symptoms, drugs might be prescribed to relieve nausea, regulate digestion and control diarrhea.

Weakness and Nausea

Feelings of lightheadedness and dizziness often occur during sudden movements such as standing or sitting. This indicates problems with blood circulation and blood pressure. No drug treatment is necessary to address this problem associated with diabetic neuropathy, although certain steps may be taken to help the patient cope.

Sleeping or resting with the head in an elevated position, for example, may benefit some people while others have found relief from increased amounts of salts in their diet. Massages and physical therapy can also help when there is a problem with coordination or if muscle weakness is present. For severe cases, medications for hypertension may be necessary.

Care and Maintenance of the Feet

It is important for people with diabetic neuropathy to take care of their feet because this is the area where nerve damage often occurs. If nerves are damaged, sensations will no longer be felt and any injuries, wounds or sores that may appear may be ignored, leading to infection or ulcers. This means that extra attention must be given to the feet and legs by keeping them clean and ensuring that there is sufficient blood circulation in the area. It is also important that regular checks for skin irritations, cuts or sores be performed.

This condition can lead to more health problems if not managed properly. By following sensible care and treatment procedures, any further health risks or nerve damage may be avoided. Always seek the advice of your doctor or health care professional for an appropriate diagnosis and diabetic neuropathy treatment.

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