2012年9月20日 星期四

Neuropathy Symptoms - Here is What All Diabetics Need to Know


NEUROPATHY MAY PRODUCE DIABETIC NERVE PAIN

Neuropathy means nerve disease or damage. Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. People with diabetes time and again have high glucose levels. In the end, high glucose levels damage nerves all through their body.

NEUROPATHY COMES IN THREE FLAVORS

1. Peripheral neuropathy is injure to peripheral nerves. These are the nerves that sense ache, contact, cold and hot. They also have an effect on muscle strength and movement. The nerves in the lower legs and feet are most frequently affected. This sort of nerve damage can lead to severe foot troubles. The harm usually gets worse gradually, over months or perhaps years. Peripheral neuropathy is what produces the diabetic nerve pain.

2. Autonomic neuropathy is injure to autonomic nerves. These are the nerves that control things like your blood pressure, heartbeat, digestion, urination, sweat, and sexual function.

3. Focal neuropathy attacks just one nerve, usually in the thigh, wrist, or foot. It may as well affect the nerves of your chest and back and those that direct your eye muscles. This sort of nerve damage typically happens abruptly.

SO WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I LEAVE MY HIGH BLOOD SUGAR UNCONTROLLED?

After a while, high blood glucose levels from diabetes can harm nerves all through your body. The higher your blood glucose levels, the more expected you are to suffer from nerve damage. Hence, controlling your blood glucose during your life is imperative.

The longer you suffer from diabetes and the older you get, the more prone you are to suffer from nerve damage. Diabetics who drink too much alcohol are more likely to suffer from nerve damage too.

Statistics show that almost half of all diabetics end up getting diabetic neuropathy.

HOW CAN I TELL I HAVE THE NEUROPATHY SYMPTOMS?

Your symptoms can vary, depending on which nerves are damaged. You may not perhaps be able to feel pain, in particular in your feet. This situation can lead to severe infections, since wounds or other harms may not get treated.

If other areas of your body are affected, neuropathy symptoms may include:

++ Troubles with digestion, such as belching, constipation, bloating, nausea and sickness, diarrhea, and abdomen pain.

++ Troubles with body temperature, such as intense sweating at night or when you eat a number of foods. Some other people may have reduced sweating, particularly in their legs and feet.

++ Troubles with urination, such as finding it difficult to tell if your bladder is full or finding it difficult to entirely drain your bladder.

++ Sexual troubles, such as erectile dysfunction in men and vaginal dehydration in women.

++ Heart and blood vessel troubles, leading to reduced blood circulation or low pressure. This may cause weakness, dizziness, or fainting when you sit up or stand up from a former reclining position.

++ Trouble sensing when your blood glucose is low.

IF YOU SUSPECT, DO NOT WAIT ANY LONGER

Physicians cannot test for all sorts of nerve damage. So it is essential to tell your medical doctor about any pain or limitation you feel, the sooner the better. Mention as well heavy sweating or faintness and changes in urination, digestion, and any sexual dysfunction.

Your physician will check how well you sense light touch and temperature and will check up your potency and your reflexes with electromyograms and nerve conduction studies. You may require other tests to distinguish which sort of diabetic neuropathy you have and to help conduct your treatment.




JOSE TALAVERA - Health advisor. Diabetes expert, consultant and author. If you like this article, please visit the web site below for more advice and resources for diabetics: http://conquer-diabetes.blogspot.com





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2012年9月19日 星期三

Diabetic Neuropathy of Your Feet Affects Balance - What You Can Do to Prevent Falls!


As many as one in two people with type 2 diabetes eventually develops a condition of chronic nerve damage in their feet known as diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Glucose, the type of sugar in your bloodstream, pours into your nerve tissues that at first can covert it into fructose and sorbitol for storage. Over a period of years the fructose and sorbitol slows down the transmission of electrical impulses across the nerve and even causes destruction of the nerve itself. As more and more nerve fibers are destroyed in your feet, there is first:


a loss of feeling, and then
a high risk of falls

Diabetics are at greater risk for falls when they have fewer sensory inputs to compensate for the loss of feeling in their feet. Closing your eyes, or walking across a dark room for example, will result in more falls. Even standing on one foot is harder for a diabetic to do with their eyes closed, but easier if eyes are open so the diabetic can judge whether he or she is standing up straight.

The most important nerves in your feet for maintaining balance are at the sides of your feet. Anything that keeps your foot flat on the floor increases the information flowing to your brain so that it can prevent falls. Vibrating shoe soles can also help prevent falls by constantly redirecting attention to your feet... but they are not very helpful in the dark. The brain still needs information from your eyes to compensate for lack of information from your feet.

What can be done to improve diabetic peripheral neuropathy?

Here are some treatments that work:


alpha-lipoic acid can reverse many of the symptoms of nerve damage. Always take 1 mg of biotin with every 100 mg of alpha-lipoic acid to prevent biotin deficiency
gel insoles may send pressure sensation to the sides of your feet where diabetic nerve damage is usually least
in diabetic men, any drug for treating erectile dysfunction will also improve diabetic peripheral neuropathy
tricyclic antidepressants such as amitryptyline (Elavil) relieve foot pain and peripheral neuropathy, but they are usually not enough to guarantee balance
capsaicin (hot pepper) creams usually reduce foot pain... but they do not restore balance. Be sure to use capsaicin creams as directed on the label and be careful to avoid getting any of the cream in your eyes.

Approximately 15% of people with diabetes will develop a serious foot problem of some kind during their lifetime and about 1 in 10 type 2 diabetics develop neuropathy of their feet even before being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Every person with diabetes, type 1 or type 2, should get regular foot exams to make sure the first time they learn they have diabetic peripheral neuropathy is not when they have had a nasty fall. Don't hesitate to remind your health care provider to check for sensation in your feet at least once a year as part of a comprehensive foot check!




Would you like more information about alternative ways to handle your type 2 diabetes?

To download your free copy of my E-Book, click here now: Answers to Your Questions ... its based on questions many 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. http://drugfreetype2diabetes.com/blog





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Diabetes and Foot Care, Diabetic Neuropathy and More


Studies concerning diabetes and foot care indicate that neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease are more prevalent in people that do not adhere to recommended preventative measures. You can learn about the recommended preventative measures in this article. Hopefully, that will help reduce your risk of complications.

Some patients do not understand the importance of regular check-ups and daily feet inspections. Those are the patients that are more likely to end up with a serious infection, which can result in amputation. The most common cause of amputations in the US is diabetic ulcers.

When the blood flow to the extremities is reduced, the immune system cannot fight infection. It cannot send white blood cells and extra nutrients to the area. Of course, blood flow is not always reduced in diabetics, but it is very common. Research indicates that even in people that are able to keep blood glucose levels under control, damage to the tiny blood vessels is common.

According to studies concerning diabetes and foot care, the most effective preventative measures include:

· Daily inspection of the area between the toes, the soles of the feet and the heels, in order to detect injury earlier and reduce the risk of infection · Always wearing socks and shoes, to reduce the risk of injury. A tiny splinter can result in a serious ulceration · Wearing socks and shoes designed specifically for diabetics. They are wider and deeper, reducing the risk of blisters or other injuries · Making use of customized insoles to reduce pain and provide additional support · Annual exam by a regular physician and/or regular visits with a podiatrist · Daily cleansing with warm (not hot) water and the use of a moisturizing cream, being careful to avoid areas between the toes

Recommendations concerning the use of a moisturizer in diabetes and foot care are due to the increased risk of infection in dry, cracked skin. Regular cleansing reduces the buildup of bacteria, which can lead to infection. Avoiding hot water is important, because of decreased sensitivity and increased risk of burns.

The decreased sensitivity is due to nerve damage. This occurs when the blood and nutrient flow to the nerves is reduced. Creams containing l-arginine may help improve blood flow to the nerve endings, which in turn would reduce intolerance of cold and normalize sensations.

Other studies concerning diabetic foot care indicate that the risk of neuropathy (nerve damage) is higher among smokers. Smoking negatively affects circulation and is generally bad for your health.

In order to avoid ingrown toenails and accompanying infection, the nails should be trimmed carefully and as straight across as possible. Special clippers are available to make trimming easier.

If you have problems with excessive perspiration, which is another common side effect, socks made of wicking material are recommended. The material pulls moisture away from the skin, which reduces the risk of fungal infection.

Researchers spend a great deal of time on the subject of diabetes and foot care, because complications can be serious. Follow their recommendations and you'll reduce your risks.




Jerome Kaplan has 30 plus years of experience in the foot health products business. He recommends everyone take foot care seriously, because minor problems today can turn into disasters when ignored. This is especially true in cases involving diabetic foot care.

There are many over-the-counter, affordable solutions that can rectify most common foot conditions. Visit his site to learn more: http://www.FootCareAide.com





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Reasons Why Your Hands and Feet Tingle When You Have Diabetes


Diabetes mellitus is a disease that is associated with metabolic disorders in the body, causing an increased level of blood glucose in the body. Diabetes is identified as a lack of insulin in the body, or as a resistance of body cells towards insulin. There are some parts of the body which do not require insulin for the transportation of glucose in the body. These are brain, nerve fibers, kidney, and retina. As the levels of glucose in the blood reaches alarming levels, these cells can function normally for some time as glucose still reaches them. With prolonged high blood glucose level, a toxic amount of glucose starts accumulating in these cells and gives rise to various long term diabetic complications. These complications are broadly classified as;

· Diabetic nephropathy

· Diabetic neuropathy

· Diabetic retinopathy

· Diabetic cardiovascular complications

Why do your hand and feet tingle?

Tingling sensation in hands and feet in diabetes is a symptom of Diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is damage to the peripheral nerves, as a result of high blood sugar for prolonged period of time. It damages the nerves that cause the sensation of pain. Toes, feet, lower, upper legs and hands and the arms are most commonly affected.

Peripheral nerves function as the transmitter of sensory information between the brain and spinal cord and the peripheral parts of the body, such as hands and feet. Any damage to them interferes this vital connection and hence distorts and interrupts the messages between the brain and the parts of the body.

How does high glucose affect the nerves?

Even though exact mechanism is not known, but it is proven that high glucose for a long time definitely damages the nerves. A number of factors are at work here;

· Lifestyle (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol) which determines the amount of blood glucose in the body.

· Damage of the blood vessels that carry blood and nutrients to the nerves i.e. neurovascular damage.

· Inflammation of the nerves.

What else happens in Diabetic Neuropathy?

Every peripheral nerve has a highly specialized function in the body, and damage to them will bring about a plethora of symptoms. A few of these symptoms associated with Diabetes are;

· Tingling in feet and hands

· Numbness which can become permanent if severe and prolonged in nature

· Burning sensation in hands and legs especially during night

· Pain

How can this be corrected?

The first and foremost measure to avoid tingling or any other sensation is to keep your blood glucose under strict control. Work in tandem with your doctor and follow all the diet, exercise and medicine regimens prescribed to you. Most of the symptoms will go away if the blood glucose is brought down to a low level.

If any of these symptoms persist, and cause discomfort, then medication can be taken. Medications such as tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline, nortryptyline) and anticonvulsants (pregabalin) are given.

FDA has approved only two medications for the treatment of Peripheral diabetic neuropathy, duloxetine (Cymbalta) and pregabalin (Lyrica).

Other medications that have also been useful are capsaicin cream, levodopa, tramadol, and opioids etc.




Pooja S. Banerjee is a pharmacist by profession, and an academician and researcher! Her passion for writing has made her foray into the world of content and medical writing!





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2012年9月18日 星期二

Diabetes and Serious Complications in The Nervous System


People suffering from chronic diabetes are likely to be affected by diabetic neuropathy. It occurs due to injury to the blood vessels that carry to nerves. A number of associated diseases also manifest themselves like paralysis and nervous disorders affecting other systems of the body also. it affects a whole lot of nerves, controlling various functions of the body. As a consequence functioning of other organs is also affected. this condition can result in a single disorder or multiple disorders of different kinds in the system. Even the functioning of the brain can be affected by diabetic neuropathy, depending on which nerves are affected.

There are different symptoms to indicate that the person has been affected by diabetic neuropathy. No part of the body is spared once this problem takes hold. The nervous system, the digestive system, the urinary system, functioning of the chest, sex, etc; are all affected. Loss of control over functioning of the various systems will have an effect on facial features, eye sight, muscular strength, etc. The throat experiences difficulty in swallowing and also in speaking. Pains all over the body, loss of muscle control are also the effect of diabetic neuropathy. In short, a whole lot of indications are there for diabetic neuropathy.

A number of circumstances which result in diabetes developing into diabetic neuropathy are listed.

Blood vessels and nerves are interdependent in their normal functioning. A construction in the blood vessel hampers the normal flow of blood to the nervous system and as a result functioning of every system gets disoriented. As this condition becomes more serious, both the nervous system and the circulatory system are in serious trouble. One way of treating this problem is dilation of the affected blood vessel. This has a marked effect on the functioning of the affected nerves.

One of the main causes for diabetic neuropathy is the very high level of glucose in the body. Glucose which has to be digested and absorbed in the blood is left free and it combines with proteins to produce an unwanted mixture with harmful effects. It has been found that such proteins place part in a diabetes patient developing diabetic neuropathy. There may be other complications also.

The more serious effect that diabetic neuropathy has on the nervous system is that nerve tissues are damaged and the normal functioning of the retina and kidney are impaired. It has been found that the nerve tissues, retina, and the kidney are not at all dependent on insulin on their normal functioning. They absorb whatever glucose is necessary and releases the balance in to the system, which in the normal circumstances and in healthy person will not affect the body functioning.

It has also been noticed nerves are affected in different ways depending on where they operate. There are nervous system controlling groups of system for example different system control arms, legs, etc; heart and lung, gastrointestinal system, urinary and reproductive system etc. Similarly the nerves going to the skull are different.

Treatment diabetic neuropathy concentrates on pain reduction and controlling sugar levels.




To learn about diabetic foot neuropathy and other foot ailments, check out author's website.





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Type 2 Diabetes - High Cholesterol Levels, Diabetic Neuropathy and Statin Drugs


High cholesterol levels and unhealthful ratios of all types of cholesterol are known to be frequent in Type 2 diabetes. One of the major systems of your body attacked by poorly controlled diabetes, is the nervous system. Damage to this system is known as diabetic neuropathy. According to research performed at the Al-Nahrin University in Baghdad, Iraq, low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the healthful or "good" cholesterol particle that helps to clean out your arteries, could be associated with diabetic neuropathy.

According to the report published in April 2011 in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, 51people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, and 31 non-diabetics used as controls, were included in the study. Blood sugar levels, blood pressure and studies of the nerves in their arms and legs, were performed over a period of one year. It was found the people with diabetic neuropathy had significantly higher blood pressures than those diabetics without neuropathy. The people diagnosed with neuropathy had an average of 14 per cent lower levels of HDL cholesterol than the non-diabetics in the study.

Although this preliminary study does not guarantee if you maintain:

a normal blood pressure... 120/80 mm HG, and
healthy cholesterol levels... a good level of HDL cholesterol is at least 60mg/dL, and an optimal level of LDL cholesterol is under 100 mg/dL,

it does not mean you will be safe from developing diabetic neuropathy. But it is true good blood pressure control along with healthy HDL levels, are definitely known to help prevent heart disease... so there could be just be one more reason for maintaining both.

To calculate your cholesterol ratio: divide your total cholesterol by your HDL number. The American Heart Association indicates you should have a cholesterol ratio of, or below, 5:1. It is suggested your goal should be less than 4:1.

To lower total cholesterol levels: a vegan diet is ideal because it does not contain the fats and cholesterol found in animal foods. The Mayo Clinic recommends:

oats, other whole grains and other high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables and beans to lower LDL.

almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, some pine nuts and pistachio nuts can also reduce cholesterol levels.

olive oil is good for lowering LDL levels without affecting HDL levels. Combine olive oil with balsamic vinegar for a tasty salad dressing.

flax seed oil and canola oil are high in omega-3 fatty acids; they not only improve cholesterol levels but help to lower blood pressure.

walking each day, normalizing weight, and stopping smoking are also great ways to increase your HDL levels.

Statin drugs: In case diet, exercise and lifestyle changes are not enough, medications are available to lower cholesterol and improve your total cholesterol/HDL ratios. Drugs in the statins class are usually prescribed by your doctor to lower your total cholesterol and, to a lesser extent, increase HDL levels. They include:

lovastatin (Mevacor),
rosuvastatin (Crestor),
fluvastatin (Lescol),
atorvastatin (Lipitor),
pravastatin (Provachol), and
simvastatin (Zocor).

Statin drugs though, do not always improve the total situation for Type 2 diabetics. What they can do is mask problems by lowering your cholesterol range to "normal" numbers. People with Type 2 diabetes need to have their insulin levels or insulin-to-glucose ratios checked before taking statin drugs. Unless you have your insulin levels checked, you are cooking up a recipe for:

heart disease,
Alzheimer's disease which is sometimes known as Type 3 diabetes, and
even cancer.

High insulin levels are connected to the abovementioned diseases. If your doctor suggests statin drugs to help lower your cholesterol levels, do not hesitate to ask to have your insulin levels checked before commencing them.

Coenzyme Q10: Taking statin drugs can compromise you body's ability to make CoQ10, a heart-healthy nutrient. (Some diabetic medications do this also). A deficiency of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) causes several problems, including shortness of breath, cardiac arrhythmias, heart attack, stroke, and more. So, if you are prescribed statins, also ask your doctor about adding CoQ10 to your medication list?

CoQ10 is helpful for everyone, not just people with Type 2 diabetes. CoQ10 is helpful for anyone who experiences leg cramps and muscle pain which is often the result of the "drug-mugging" effect of statin drugs.




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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Natural Remedies For Diabetic Neuropathy!


About one in five type 2 diabetics develops a chronic, painful nerve condition called diabetic neuropathy. Nerve tissues absorb sorbitol and cease to function. The exact mechanisms of diabetic neuropathy are hard to describe, but as nerve cells die, remaining nerve cells constantly tell the brain: "We're here! We're here!" by sending signals of burning pain 24 hours a day.

Diabetic neuropathy affects 60 to 70 per cent of all diabetics. Symptoms may range from mild loss of sensation in your feet, right through to constant pain in various parts of your body. Nerve damage may also impair digestion and sexual function, particularly in males, and can also be responsible for a number of other complications.

For 50 years or more, doctors have used antidepressants to treat neuropathy. Antidepressants activate the regions of your brain that can shut out nerve pain. An old-style antidepressant medication called amitryptyline that has been on the market so long it now costs just US $4 for a 30-day supply, and works for many type 2 diabetics who suffer chronic nerve pain. And the antidepressant medication fluvoxamine (Luvox) also can be helpful.

The downside of antidepressants is that they encourage weight gain and they have unpredictable effects on mood. Many type 2 diabetics look at ways of controlling the pain of neuropathy without the expense or side effects of antidepressant medication.

Probably the best non-drug treatment for neuropathy caused by type 2 diabetes, is alpha-lipoic acid. Taken in a dosage of 1,000 to 2,000 mg a day, it acts by first relieving numbness and then relieving pain in most diabetics who take it. An additional benefit of taking alpha-lipoic acid is that it can shore up sagging jaw lines and waistlines, by encouraging the circulation of fluid out of the tissues between fat cells.

If you take alpha-lipoic acid, be sure you also take the B vitamin biotin, as this anti-oxidant depletes biotin. You would need to take 100 mg of biotin for every 1,000 mg of alpha-lipoic acid.

Some natural health products manufacturers also offer R-lipoic acid. This is the alpha-lipoic acid produced by a different process that results in a supplement that is 100% utilized by the body. (About 55% of the product made in traditional manufacture is an isomer of the chemical that is not recognized by human cells). If you take R-lipoic-acid, take half much, plus 200 mg of biotin for every 1,000 mg of R-lipoic-acid.




Would you like more information about alternative ways to handle your type 2 diabetes?

To download your free copy of my E-Book, click here now: Answers to Your Questions ...its based on questions many 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.
http://drugfreetype2diabetes.com/blog
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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How a Type I Diabetic Got Rid of Her Severe Burning Diabetic Neuropathy Foot Pain in Two Minutes


The other day, 'Mary' came back to my health food store to tell

me about her extraordinary miracle. You see, Mary is an

enthusiastic young woman in her early twenties who suffers

from Type One diabetes. Not too long ago, Mary went into a

coma and had to be rushed to the hospital - that's how bad her

diabetes is.

She has also been suffering immensely from nerve damage in her

feet and legs. Her condition had grown worse over time.

Her pain got so bad she was recently rushed to the hospital in the night. All they could do for her was to inject her feet with pain killers to numb her pain. If you knew Mary, this wasn't a solution she wanted.

So she came to see me. She decided to get a bottle of sub-lingual 5,000 microgram vitamin B-12. Three days later she popped back into the store with a big, big grin. She told me that she had put one of the tablets under her tongue right after she'd left the store on the way to her car in the mall parking lot.

Here comes the miracle! By the time she got into her mother's car her terrible burning pain was gone! And it hadn't come back! She took a tablet every twelve hours or so. She said she sometimes she could feel the burning start back up each time she was due for another tablet. But each time the nerve pain vanished!

If you know anyone, ANYONE with diabetes, please forward this

letter to them... do it even if they don't have nerve pain...because they might get hit with it in the future... because sooner or later, nerve damage is extremely common in diabetics.

Your kindness in forwarding this information could save them

from having their foot or leg amputated - that's how important

this is.

You know what? Cancel that last sentence. Send this message on

to everyone on your buddy list, because it will reach more

diabetics that way.

If you haven't received one of my huge health tips before, here

is my vision: Together we can solve the nation's health care

crisis - one person at a time.




William Kelley Eidem is the author of The Doctor Who Cures Cancer. He is also the author of It's Not Just For Sex, available exclusively online at http://www.itsnotjustforsex.com. You can also subscribe to his FREE Huge Health Secrets newsletter at the same address. Follow the link.





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2012年9月17日 星期一

Diabetic Neuropathy - A Silent Threat


A recent press release by the Centers for Disease Control stated that the new cases of diabetes increased by 90 percent over the last 10 years. And with diabetes comes a whole new set of complications that patients must seriously think about when being proactive about their health. One such complication is Diabetic Neuropathy. According to the Centers for Disease control it affects 60 to 70 percent of the patients diagnosed with this disease.

So what does Diabetic Neuropathy mean? It means the nervous system becomes damaged over time because of high blood sugar levels in the body. This translates to loss of sensation, tingling, even constant pain in any region of the body but mostly in the feet and extremities. Damage to nerves can also mean that the body looses the ability to regulate blood pressure and therefore circulation to these important parts of the body. Also when applied to the muscles of the feet, poor circulation can lead to weak muscles and can sometimes cause a drop in the mid part of the foot. This in return can cause calluses and ulcerations because of the uneven pressure points when walking. All this can occur with a diabetic not even knowing because of loss of sensation to the feet. Amputation can then become a serious risk when this takes place.

Science has long known the advantage of the application of heat. The physiological benefits include increasing the diameter of the arteries in the body to increase blood flow which in itself has a therapeutic effect. One such product that uses controlled heat for therapeutic healing is the Vitalwrap System. Recent case studies have shown the application of the Vitalwrap system to improve circulation to occluded vessels. One such case study was done on an 86 year old African American female who had a history of Type II Diabetes and also presented with Diabetic neuropathy. Doppler exam also found the client had moderate to severe occlusive arterial disease on both the right and left foot. After only twenty minutes of application of the Vitalwrap system to the left foot improvement in circulation was seen. The left posterior tibial artery saw an improvement of blood circulation from 8.9cm/sec to 13.9cm/sec. Another such case study was done on a 75 year old Caucasian man also with a history of Diabetes Mellitus and pressure ulcer on the second digit of left foot. Improved circulation is especially vital when healing from ulcers. The blood brings the oxygen the tissue needs to restore itself to its original state. After using the Vitalwrap system the left posterior tibial artery went from 22.1cm/sec to 25cm/sec. The dorsalis pedis artery improved as well going from 22.9cm/sec to 38cm/sec. These studies have shown that the vitalwrap system is useful in assisting diabetic individuals in improving circulation and regain a better quality of life.




MMAR Medical is the largest wholesale distributor of comfort and diabetic footwear in the nation, as well as braces, supports, splints, and therapy products. Please visit us online at http://www.mmarmedical.com





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How Diabetic Neuropathy Or Nerve Problems Work If You Have Diabetes


?Other than kidney and eye problems, diabetes could also cause complications of the nerves. This is also known as diabetic neuropathy. This happens when the tiny blood vessels supplying the nerve tissue are damaged. Therefore, the nerves on a diabetic person will suffer from loss of nerve conduction. He or she will also feel numb and tingling along with some pain.

Severity of the nerves problem

It will become worse as time progresses if the diabetes is not kept under control. Fortunately, the nerve problem will take ten years to develop. Therefore, it is not common to see children suffering from such nerve complications. Diabetic neuropathy is most likely to happen in adults.

Worsening of the complication

If the person is older, he or she has a greater risk of suffering from diabetic neuropathy.

The same goes to people who are taller. This is because they have longer nerve fibers, which can have higher chances of being damaged.

People who are alcoholic will only make the problem worse. This is because alcohol and neuropathy are closely connected together.

Why does neuropathy happen

This is because of the speed of the nervous impulse. This speed is also known as nerve conduction velocity or 'NCV'. When a person is suffering from diabetic neuropathy, that person's 'NCV' is slowed. Then, sooner or later, nerves begin to develop mild loss of sensations.

Testing of the nerve fibers

There are certain types of nerve fibers that are responsible for varying sensations like vibration, light touch and temperature.

The following lists some of the ways these fibers can be tested.

Vibration testing

Doctors will use a tuning fork to find out just how much damage the nerve has amounted. If these nerves (that respond to the tuning fork) are damaged, you are most likely to be suffering from balancing problems.

Temperature testing

Some nerve fibers might be damaged. Therefore, you might not realize if it is too cold or not. Loss of temperature sensing happens.

Light touch testing

Doctors will use a filament and place it on your skin of the feet. Usually, if the person cannot feel the filament, then he or she has damaged nerves.




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From Diabetes to Neuropathy - You Can End the Cycle


Diabetic neuropathy is a well-known complication of long-standing diabetes. With diabetes affecting nearly one in twelve persons in United States, diabetic neuropathy and its management becomes an important healthcare concern.

The neuropathy of diabetes can have many forms based on clinical presentation and the pattern of nerve involvement. Some forms are irreversible and continue to deteriorate, while others are self-limiting and improve on their own. Diabetic neuropathy may also involve autonomic nerves and present with manifestations like incontinence, erectile dysfunction, postural hypotension, diarrhea or constipation and numerous other. More commonly it may present with pain, altered sensations or even weakness of muscles. Presentation is often variable, and mixed with varying contribution from each type.

Almost all forms of diabetic neuropathy can be prevented by strict control of blood sugar levels. Although reversing all forms of diabetic neuropathy may not be always possible, but in most of the cases the progression can be halted or greatly slowed down by adequate therapeutic intervention. Central to the treatment is strict sugar control with the blood glucose in the desired range. It is very important that after being diagnosed with diabetes, you should realize that you can do a lot in preventing the various complications of the diabetes mellitus. Almost all long-term complications of diabetes like neuropathy, retinopathy, renal damage, etc. can be prevented, or at least their progression hastened if the affected person strictly follows the doctor recommended therapeutic guidelines. Therefore, you should religiously follow the strict blood sugar level control guidelines given to you by your physician. Regular checking of your blood sugar by portable devices also helps in monitoring the control of blood glucose. Furthermore, you should not skip your medications and/or insulin.

Always remember, if you have type 2 diabetes and your blood sugar in not being monitored or controlled, then quickly you will likely start developing the many of the complications of diabetes, and with someone has poor blood sugar control, it is typically a vicious cycle with a downhill course. However you can end this cycle by monitoring and keeping your blood sugar levels within the appropriate range. Lastly, it has been observed that diabetic patients who also smoke and drink alcohol are at greater risk of developing the neuropathy. So, while it is a good idea for everyone to stop smoking and drink responsibly, if you have been diagnosed as a diabetic you should avoid smoking and alcohol even more so as it increases the likelihood of diabetic neuropathy.




For more information on how to effectively manage diabetes the natural way starting today, visit Integrative Physical Medicine of Orlando. Dr. Marc Ott, DC offers effective solutions to help you maintain a healthy blood sugar level. Visit Integrated Health of Orlando to learn more about how you can begin to manage your diabetes as we are dedicated towards providing effective diabetes solutions to our patients.





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2012年9月16日 星期日

Type 2 Diabetes - Is There a Connection Between Neuropathy and Sleep Apnea in Diabetes?


Neuropathy or nerve damage, is one of the chronic complications of diabetes. Nerve damage actually changes the way a body part actually functions and its structure. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics can develop this problem. When the damage progresses, the numbness or pain becomes more prevalent. Common symptoms of neuropathy in the feet and legs are:

stinging or burning sensations,
tingling,
crawling skin,
sharp pain,
high sensitivity to the touch (eg. bed sheets),
numbness,
pins and needle sensations.

Neuropathy can cause people to have injuries without even realizing it.

Obstructive sleep apnea is another health problem frequently associated with Type 2 diabetes. People with this problem suffer collapsed airways during sleep and stop breathing for short periods of time. Sleep apnea can cause people to feel tired during the day even if they get a normal amount of sleep. It is associated with oxidation and inflammation, leading investigators to suspect it could be associated with diabetic neuropathy.

In July 2012 the American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care Medicine reported a study by researchers at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom. The investigators looked at Type 2 diabetics from two hospitals.

A total of 234 diabetics were included in the study. It was found:

the diabetics with obstructive sleep apnea were more than twice as likely to have diabetic neuropathy as the diabetics with normal breathing during sleep.
blood vessel function was also found to be impaired in diabetics with sleep apnea, which the researchers suggested could lead to diabetic neuropathy.

They concluded further studies are needed to discover whether treating sleep apnea could also help to prevent diabetic neuropathy.

Diabetic Neuropathy: This problem is caused by damage to nerves in the feet and hands. When the blood vessels do not deliver enough blood to provide nerves with sufficient oxygen and nutrients, nerve damage develops. Now this nerve damage can mean diabetics do not always notice stepping onto something sharp, getting a blister or wound, or touching something too hot or cold.

Unnoticed injuries can lead to serious infections, so preventing neuropathy is important. This is one reason why it is important for diabetics to wear comfortable shoes to protect their feet.

One definite method of prevention is to keep your blood sugar levels under control. Another might be preventing or treating sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea: According to doctors at the University of Chicago, the majority of diabetics have sleep apnea. Poor quality sleep makes control of your blood sugar levels difficult, as well as being associated with heart disease.

Sleep apnea is also known to be under-diagnosed. People with Type 2 diabetes who feel sleepy during the day, or who are known to snore and have difficulty controlling blood sugar levels, should mention the problem to their doctor. A machine called CPAP, which helps people to breathe room air, can be helpful. Here's to getting a good night's rest.




Type 2 diabetes is no longer a condition you must just live with. It need not slowly and inevitably get worse. Now is the time to take control of the disease... and take back your life.

For nearly 25 years Beverleigh Piepers has searched for and found a number of secrets to help you build a healthy body.

The answer isn't in the endless volumes of available information but in yourself.





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Diabetic Neuropathy


Diabetic neuropathy damages the nerves and the different kinds of pain tell which nerves are affected. The sensory nerves allow people to feel pain, temperature and other sensations. The motor nerves affect the muscles and strength. The autonomic nerves allow people to do involuntary things like sweat. What makes it so dangerous is that somehow, along with the pain and other sensations, it also causes numbness, which can cause people to not realize they've injured themselves and sores do not heal as well in diabetics.

I've found that a real problem for some dealing with this disease is sleeping. Some people's feet are so sensitive that they cannot bear the touch of sheets and may not even be able to wear socks. For these people, heavy blankets are out of the question but there is relief and it can be found by using a blanket lifter. It's also great for those who have pain from arthritis and foot injuries like sprains and breaks.

This device lifts the blankets off your feet while you sleep. My wife has been using this for some time now and has found great relief. She no longer feels the weight of the blankets much less the touch of the sheets. She says she sleeps much better now that she is using a blanket lifter.

I've learned that there are things to beware of, the main one being height. Many seem to have been created long ago when mattresses were thinner or might have been created for hospital beds. That's why I created my own version of a blanket lifter. Our design fits all mattress sizes and installs with ease.

It comes partially assembled and can be put together in 15 minutes. Sizes are for King, Queen, Double and Twin mattress. It fits at the end of your bed under your top mattress, up and over your feet. You can also take it with you when you travel. Just pull it apart at the numbered joints and put it into your suitcase.




I've seen first hand that a Toe Tent blanket lifter is the answer for those nights when your feet are most sensitive and you feel that your blankets are just to heavy. With http://www.TheToeTent.com you can be sure you can get the sleep and rest that you desperately need.

Relief is so very important. Even the smallest amount makes such difference in your life. Why not do all you can to help this problem? Check it out for yourself. You will be glad you did. http://www.TheToeTent.com.





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Beating Neuropathy - Keys to Effective Neuropathy Treatment


Peripheral neuropathy and diabetic neuropathy are both diseases that are brought on by several things. Some of these things are: the nerve damage that occurs with diabetes, the ingestion of toxins over long periods of time, alcohol abuse, genetic diseases, physical trauma and vitamin deficiencies. While some of these causes can be avoided, there are some (genetic diseases) that cannot be avoided. In those cases, neuropathy treatment is necessary to alleviate the pain and symptoms associated neuropathy.

Eating and Living Healthy

Experts agree that the human body is at its best when it is in peak physical condition. This means that maintaining a healthy weight and eating the right foods can be crucial when battling the effects of neuropathy. What does this mean? It means that the body can fight the symptoms of neuropathy if it is taken care of properly.

Eating a diet rich in antioxidants, omega 3 fatty acids, proteins, green leafy vegetables and low fat foods, can help you maintain a healthy weight, or lose the weight that can complicate diabetic neuropathy. Exercise is also a great way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Not only does exercise benefit the body, it also benefits the mind. Exercise can help you keep a positive attitude and outlook, which are both key components to dealing with neuropathy pain.

Avoiding Toxins

Toxins can come in many forms, all of which are harmful in any amount. Some of these toxins include: alcohol, drugs, organic and heavy metals, and excess vitamin B6, which is sometimes given as a remedy for neuropathy.

In most cases, it's easy to avoid ingesting or handling toxins, but sometimes drinking water, old paints and imported goods can be contaminated with toxins. Using a water filter and purchasing certified toxin free imported goods will go a long way to keeping yourself healthy, and fighting the effects of neuropathy.

Pain Management

Managing the pain associated with neuropathy is the most effective neuropathy treatment. Using topical creams with Capsaicin or taking prescription pain medications will help improve your life and keep the pain in check. Some symptoms of neuropathy (numb feet, tingling feet) can also be managed using acupuncture, massage, and heat therapies.

Being diagnosed with neuropathy doesn't mean you have to put aside your life and live with the pain. You can beat neuropathy by taking steps to make sure your neuropathy treatments work effectively.




Click Here for a FREE bottle of a top rated Neuropathy Treatment from a reputable vendor.

Click Here for a FREE bottle of a top rated Neuropathy Treatment from a reputable vendor.





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The Pain of Diabetic Neuropathy


Diabetic neuropathy is the damage to nerves in the body that is caused from blood sugars that are too high. When the blood sugar in a person's body runs higher than it should for long periods of time the nerve endings in the body can be damaged. When these nerve endings are damaged they can cause the person to have a constant burning pain and they can cause the portion of the body that is affected to not function normally.

Generally the condition of diabetic neuropathy is located in the feet and legs of the affected person. The condition can affect any part of the body where there is a nerve located though. People complain of burning sensations in their feet and legs when the nerve damage starts.

Some people say it feels as if their feet have been really cold and then been placed in hot water.

Some people say the sensation is comparable to standing in a bed of fire ants for a prolonged period of time.

Some people say the sensation they feel is like when their leg has gone to sleep and is having the tingling feeling they get when they begin to awaken.

All people agree that the condition is painful and annoying.

When diabetic neuropathy is in the feet of the patient they will have the burning pain but they will lose some of the normal feelings their feet should have. So when these people cut their foot or they damage their foot in some way they are not always aware of the injury. Having an injury go untreated can cause people with diabetes to develop infections. People who have diabetes have a harder time overcoming illnesses like infections so these conditions can lead to amputations of the infected body part.

A lot of the time the people who have diabetic neuropathy in their feet will have difficulty walking or maintaining their balance when they walk. This causes them to have more falls and injuries that are related to falls. Since they have less sensation in their feet they have a very difficult time walking on unlevel surfaces.

Diabetic neuropathy cannot be 100% prevented. After a period of time everyone that has the disease will more than likely develop this painful condition. If a diabetic controls their blood sugar levels they can however, postpone the onset of this condition. A healthy diet and proper exercise are the key factors in delaying this disease.








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2012年9月15日 星期六

Type 2 Diabetes - Alternatives Medications Used For Pain in Diabetic Complications


Many pain medications used in Western medicine are opiates, or narcotics, chemically similar to the opium used in other cultures. Medications such as codeine, Percodan, Lortabs, morphine, OxyContin, Percocet and others used for conditions such as diabetic neuropathy are related to opium. An article published in the journal Acta Medica in July 2011, might be something to consider if you or a loved one with Type 2 diabetes is considering taking opiates for pain. The study was performed at Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Iran.

In Iran it is a widely held belief that opium helps to prevent diabetics from getting heart and blood vessel disease, and it is used for that purpose. Two hundred and twenty-eight opium users and 228 non-users, all with diabetes, were included in the study. Coronary artery disease was found to be higher in the users than in non-users. The researchers concluded there is evidence suggesting the use of opium increases the risk of coronary artery disease in people with diabetes.

Fortunately, non-narcotic medications are available for diabetic neuropathy. If over-the-counter drugs such as Tylenol and motrin are not effective, then antiepileptics, lidocaine, or antidepressants are alternatives. Anti-seizure medications used for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy include:

Neurontin,
Topamax,
Lyrica,
Tegretol, and
Dilantin.

It is unclear exactly how anti-seizure drugs help neuropathic pain, but both health problems are due to difficulties in the nervous system.

Alternative drugs prescribed to help with the pain of diabetic neuropathy:

Lidocaine is an anesthetic that can be used locally with a patch which is applied directly to the skin. Up to four patches per day can be used, and the only possible side effect is a skin rash.

Duloxetine, also called Cymbalta, is an antidepressant approved for use in diabetic neuropathy. This medication allows molecules that carry messages from one nerve cell to another to stay in the spaces between nerve cells, where messages are transmitted. In November 2010 the Chinese Medical Journal published an article on the use of duloxetine compared to a placebo for diabetic neuropathy. Researchers at Peking University First Hospital in Beijing found that patients given duloxetine reported significantly less pain than patients taking placebo.

Pamelor, also called Aventyl or nortryptiline, is another antidepressant approved for use in treating diabetic neuropathy. It works by interrupting processes in the smaller nerves and spinal cord that cause pain.

Electrical stimulation is also available when medications are unsatisfactory. Electrodes are placed onto the skin and a mild current is run through them for temporary relief.

Keeping blood sugar levels in the normal range is also helpful for preventing diabetic neuropathy. There are several reasons why nerve damage does take place. It is due partly to the high blood sugar damaging the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the nerves. It's also possible there can be inflammation in the nerves, or an autoimmune attack on the nerves.

Some diabetics are able to control the pain of their diabetic neuropathy by:

light aerobics or walking, since physical activity keeps circulation healthy and prevents too much fluid from accumulating.

wearing elastic stockings,

soaking in a warm bath,

massage therapy since it helps to reduce your output of the pain-causing chemical, cortisol,

using a TENS unit which sends out tiny electrical impulses into localized areas can interrupt pain sensations for many people. Your doctor will be able to advise if this is appropriate for you




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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Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Pain


If you're a diabetic and have progressed to peripheral neuropathy complications, chances are you've been prescribed medications by your endocrinologist or doctor. Anti-seizure drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, opioids, anti-depressants and topical anesthetics are usually given as medications for diabetic nerve pain. They may have offered you some relief. But you can't endure the side effects of some of your medications.

You'd like to try alternative medicine and someone suggested acupuncture. Does acupuncture really work?

Research on Acupuncture on Diabetic Peripheral Neuritis

As early as 1997, Abuaisha et al of the Department of Medicine, Manchester Royal Infirmary conducted a study entitled, "Acupuncture for the treatment of chronic peripheral diabetic neuropathy: a long-term study." It studied the effectiveness of acupuncture in alleviating the painful symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

46 diabetic patients suffering from painful longstanding peripheral neuropathy were involved in this study. The patients were given 6 courses of classical acupuncture over a period of 10 weeks using traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture points. 44 of the patients completed the treatment with 34 patients or 77 percent exhibiting significant improvement in their symptoms. They were followed up for 18-52 weeks and 67 percent were able to reduce their medications. However, eight or 24 percent required further acupuncture treatment. 34 or 77 percent noted significant improvement in their symptoms while only 7 patients or 21 percent had a clearing of their symptoms. One patient didn't finish the full course. There had been no reported side effects. The study strongly suggests that acupuncture is a safe and effective long term management of painful diabetic neuropathy.

The US National Institutes of Health, the World Health Organization, the National Health Service of the United Kingdom and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine have endorsed this therapy as alternative and complementary.

What Acupuncture is

If you haven't any idea what it is, it has ancient beginnings in China and is part of traditional Chinese medicine. Very thin but solid sterile needles are inserted in identified areas in the skin called qi, meridians or acupuncture points. It is believed that stimulating these points corrects imbalances to "improve health and well-being." But scientific research finds no histological or physiological correlates for qi, meridians or acupuncture points.

Researchers are not also clear on how acupuncture works but are unanimous that it can relieve pain in a variety of conditions; and reduces nausea and vomiting after surgery and chemo.

A well trained acupuncturist does the procedure. In the US, the practice of acupuncture utilizes medical traditions originating from China, Korea, Japan and other countries.

The Acupuncture Procedure for Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment

The treatment is done on both sides of the body. Acupuncture points are inserted with needles on the hands or feet or both depending upon where the pain is felt. The patient usually lies prone and needles are inserted at specific points in the lumbar or cervical areas of the spine. If neuropathy pain occurs at the hands, needles are inserted at the cervical area and at the lumbar area if pain is felt at the lower extremities. Both lumbar and cervical areas are inserted with needles if both upper and lower extremities are involved. The needle points are actually where the spinal nerves exit from the spinal column and travel to innervate the hands and feet. Points at the feet and hands are also inserted with needles. The combination of techniques reduces sensitivity of nerves and restores them to their normal functions. This actually, relieves the nerve pain of diabetes.

Very thin needles, around 5-20, are used and don't cause much discomfort when inserted. The acupuncturist may move the needles gently or twirl it and you may feel mild aching sensation. Heat or mild electrical impulses can be applied through the needles.

The needles are removal after 10-20 minutes. There should be no discomfort. Your acupuncturist should discard the needles after removal.

Majority says they feel energized after a session. But you may need a series of treatments to feel improvement of your symptoms.

Bottom Line

If you are considering acupuncture to relieve pain of your peripheral neuropathy inform your doctor or endocrinologist. Most important of all, you should continue your insulin or anti-diabetic medications including medications for your neuropathy.

Acupuncture can help in conjunction with nutritional supplements such as alpha lipoic acid, biotin, evening primrose oil, cinnamon and Vitamin B complex. You should continue with your diabetic diet, exercise and blood glucose monitoring. A good control of your blood glucose levels will prevent further deterioration of your diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Be sure to seek a licensed acupuncture practitioner. In the US, qualified acupuncturists are members of the American Association of Oriental Medicine. You can find one in your area.




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 nutritional supplements such as alpha lipoic acid, biotin, evening primrose oil, acetyl-L-carnitine, bromelain, quercetin, black currant seed oil and other supplements can help in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. http://www.typefreediabetes.com/Diabetic-Neuropathy-Supplements-s/11556.htm





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Type 2 Diabetes - Causes of Depression in Diabetes


Depression is more common in people diagnosed with diabetes than in non-diabetics, and having diabetes can make self-care more difficult. Diabetics with depression are more vulnerable to complications than those diabetics whose moods are generally happier. In addition to being a miserable condition in its own right, any level of depression is a deterrent to the effective management of Type 2 diabetes.

Researchers in the Department of Psychology at the University of Florida in the United States looked at possible reasons for depression in people with Type 2 diabetes. Their study, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Medicine in December 2011, included 77 individuals previously diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.


volunteers reporting pain and difficulty with activities of daily living reported more depression than those who had fewer symptoms.
diabetics with high weight compared to their height reported the most pain.

From this the researchers concluded pain and difficulty functioning were important causes of depression for people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and that excess weight was associated with pain.

Pain in diabetes comes from neuropathy, or nerve damage, and affects 60 to 70 per cent of diabetics. Diabetes is a common cause of neuropathy, it is now known that significant nerve damage often develops in the pre-diabetic phase. There are several forms of neuropathy. Frequently it takes place in the hands or feet, or the periphery, giving it the name peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy can lead to injuries when normal pain is not felt.

Diabetic neuropathy is often described as pain, tingling, or a pins and needles sensation, but it can also consist of numbness or weakness. It can be caused by:


high blood sugar levels,
high cholesterol and blood fat,
inflammation,
heredity,
smoking, or
alcohol use.

Whilst the most common type of peripheral neuropathy occurs in the feet, as the condition progresses the symptoms may spread up the legs, The hands may be affected as well, usually after the symptoms in the legs and feet have become quite severe.

Numbness in the feet may mean the diabetic is unable to feel his feet rubbing against his shoes and calluses or skin ulcers may form. In severe cases infections may spread to the underlying bones. These serious problems usually occur when a diabetic has both neuropathy and poor circulation.

To prevent diabetic neuropathy or keep it from worsening, follow your prescribed medical regimen: its critical to prevent these problems by keeping:


blood sugar levels,
blood pressure, and
cholesterol levels under control.

Eat a healthful diet, and exercise. These steps will help keep blood sugar levels under control, normalize your weight and help to improve circulation. A half hour walk every day is a good way to keep up circulation to the feet, where it is particularly needed in people with diabetes. Here's to being pain-free and depression-free.




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) 2011 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide





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Diabetic Neuropathy and Seven Special Foot Care Tips!


The foot is the most common part of the body affected by peripheral neuropathy in the person with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Although peripheral neuropathy can also affect your legs, arms and hands. Nerve damage often first appears as:


discomfort
tingling
sensitivity to touch
loss of co-ordination
numbness or the sensation of pins and needles

If any of the above are present and then disappear, this could mean your nerve cells have been permanently damaged. When this happens your foot or feet are insensitive to touch and pain. Although the absence of pain is definitely a relief, it leaves you vulnerable to several deadly complications, including life-threatening infections.

It is very important for people with diabetes to check their feet every day, checking for:


cuts
scrapes
swelling
bleeding
any sign of infection including any discharge from wounds

If left untreated, infections can spread to your bone and lead to amputation of the affected toe, foot or lower leg. Reports show half of the annual lower limb amputations world-wide, are performed on people with diabetic neuropathy. These amputations can be prevented by simply paying more attention to your feet and any sign of infection.

With all of this in mind, here are seven foot care tips:

1. Wash your feet daily with soap and water. Do not use hot water or soak your feet. Make sure your feet are dry, especially the area between your toes.

2. Apply a gentle hand cream especially if your feet are rough and dry.

3. Inspect your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling of any other problem. To see the base of your feet use a mirror.

4. Cut your toenails to follow the shape of the end of your toes, not deep into the corners. This is best done after your bath or shower.

5. Protect your feet by wearing properly fitting shoes. Run your hand around the inside of your shoes to check there is nothing that will hurt your feet.

6. Seamless socks will help to avoid irritating your feet. Of course, stockings and socks should be changed daily.

7. See your podiatrist regularly. Don't hesitate to see your podiatrist or health care provider about any problems.

Even if you have no nerve damage and normal blood supply to your feet, your must take good care of them as neuropathy is related to poor blood pressure and blood sugar control.




By keeping your blood sugar levels under control you can reduce the likelihood of developing peripheral neuropathy in the future.

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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2012年9月14日 星期五

What Are the Common Treatments For Diabetic Neuropathy?


Both diabetes type I or diabetes type II have certain health complications that go along with contracting the disease. Each type of this affliction is developed by insulin not being readily available in the blood. One of the side effects of diabetes is neuropathy or nerve damage that can affect all parts of the body. Diabetic neuropathy is a serious condition that can be treated in a variety of different ways.

The first and best way to avoid nerve damage that can result from diabetes is to keep a solid hold on blood sugar levels. This is a preventative measure that can have other positive effects on a diabetic's bodily systems. However, this can directly curb the effects of nerve damage on the system by never letting them develop. Monitor the blood sugar levels and keep them in their target ranges when battling diabetes to avoid nerve damage.

There will be a lot of pain in areas that have had nerve damage brought on by diabetes. When this occurs, a physician will prescribe a variety of oral medication to help curb these pains. Unfortunately, this damage is usually irreversible, so this becomes a lifelong struggle that people will have to deal with.

Gastrointestinal problems can also arise from nerve damage brought on by a long time battle with diabetes. When the body fights diabetes and sugars get out of control, there is a wide range of negative effects on the intestines, colon, and other parts of the digestive tract in the body. To treat these problems, doctors usually prescribe medications to help with nausea, indigestion, and gas. Also, people battling this complication should eat smaller meals more frequently.

Different urinary and sexual arousal problems can occur in both men and women when dealing with this affliction. For women, urinary tract infections can set in much more quickly when dealing with the effects of nerve damage on the body. For men, nerve endings in penis can become damaged, which will make it much harder for a man to get an erection.

While there are many effects all over the body brought on by diabetic neuropathy, they can all be prevented from occurring by merely keeping blood sugar levels and blood pressure in their target areas. People who do not are susceptible to different types of nerve damage. Seek out a doctor as soon as possible if you're a diabetic with any of these problems.




If you recognize that you are showing some of the diabetes, be sure to take a Diabetes Symptoms Quiz. You should also recognize that you can take a diabetes home test to test yourself for diabetes. Click on the previous links to find out more about these options.





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Diabetes Feet - Causes of Diabetes Nerve Damage


How many of you know what diabetic neuropathies is? Diabetic neuropathies is a nerve disorder that if not taken serious can have dire consequences. Diabetes nerve damage can be taking place right under your nose without realizing it.

In others, diabetes nerve damage is noticeable by the tingling and numbness in arms, hands, legs and feet. Most any organ in the body can be affected by diabetic neuropathies.

In the U.S. today it is estimated that nearly 60% of diabetics suffer from diabetic neuropathies or a form of it. As one grows older the chances of developing neuropathie increases and progresses through time. Those who have trouble controlling blood sugar levels and those with diabetes for over 25 years are more likely to get this disease.

Causes Of Diabetic Neuropathies & Diabetes Nerve Damage

The symptoms of diabetes nerve damage will differ from person to person, those with higher blood glucose levels for longer periods of time are more likely to suffer from nerve damage.

In a lot of folks mild nerve damage is not even noticed, while others will have severe symptoms along with a great deal of pain. Below I go over some causes...

* The way we live, our lifestyle, has a great deal to do with developing neuropathie. Smoking and drinking have a huge impact on health, diabetes or no diabetes.

* For many this horrible disease is inherited from family members past and present.

* Abnormally high blood fat levels to go along with high glucose levels.

* Problems with blood vessels in the extremities.

* Autoimmune diseases may be contributing problems and causing inflammation of the nerves.

Now we are going to go over what to look out for, symptoms of diabetic neuropathies:

For the most part the symptoms start out with a tingling sensation in the hands, arms, feet and legs. In lots of folks there will be no noticeable damage. Some people will feel pain that is unbearable at times. All depends on the severity and progress of the diabetes.

* Numbness in hands, arms, legs and feet.

* Feeling like you have indigestion all the time. Being nauseated or even vomiting.

* Feeling weak and not wanting to do much.

* Headrush, fainting spells from possible high blood pressure. This usually happens when getting up to quickly.

To be on the safe side, if you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is high time for a visit to your doctor. He will, with a few blood tests let you know if in fact, you are a diabetic. Your doctor will also help you in controlling diabetes nerve damage if the problem arises.




Diabetics Need To Watch The Signs Of Diabetes Nerve Damage Learn all you can about Diabetes Feet.





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Quantum Orthomolecular Medicine Uses Amino Acid Therapy to Heal Neuropathy


How is Amino Acid Therapy used to treat neuropathy?

Acetyl-L-carnitine is a neuroprotectant. Recent studies show that acetyl-L-carnitine reduces some chemotherapy induced neuropathy and diabetes induced neuropathy. Acetyl-L-carnitine accelerated nerve regeneration after trauma. This would be useful in neuropathy arising from sports injuries, automobile accidents, household injuries and wartime injuries. In the first study, diabetic animals treated with acetyl-L-carnitine maintained near normal nerve conduction velocity without any adverse effects on glucose, insulin, or free fatty acid levels, suggesting that acetyl-L-carnitine can hasten nerve regeneration in the context of diabetes. Acetyl-L-carnitine improves nerve conduction velocity while it prevents or slows cardiac neuropathy in people with diabetes.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an amino acid that is a powerful antioxidant and a precursor to glutathione, an intrinsic antioxidant. NAC can inhibit diabetic neuropathy and protect against chemotherapy induced neuropathy.

The synthetic pharmaceutical version of GABA has the ability to improve neuropathy in over 50% of the people with post herpetic and diabetic neuropathy. The pharmaceutical synthetic version of main components of GABA may block neuropathy pain in some people. This causes inhibition of neurotransmitter release and suppresses the development of central pain sensitization. The amino acid GABA can do this with lower cost and fewer side effects.

Quantum Brain Healing finds that the amino acid 5-HTP can be very effective to replace the use of low dose tricyclic antidepressants to treat peripheral neuropathy. It is possible to use 5-HTP to change the production and re-uptake rates of neurotransmitters in treating neuropathic pain. This function can also be successfully addressed with the amino acid 5-HTP which is a precursor to serotonin and dopamine.

Quantum Orthomolecular Medicine uses L-Lysine to treat neuropathy associated with herpes outbreaks. The use of approximately 1200 mg per day of L-Lysine can help prevent outs of herpes. L-Lysine can also be beneficial when there is an active Herpes blister. There is a need to reduce of eliminate foods high in arginine and take 2,000 mg per day of L-Lysine and add several cups of green tea per day to your diet. The green tea can impede viral replication. Another important step is to reduce or eliminate nicotine and alcohol during active herpes infections.

How does green tea benefit diabetic neuropathy

Glucose causes excess free radicals and oxidative stress which leads to inflammation and degradation of nerve fibers. This biochemical action causes diabetic neuropathy and associated pain. Green tea's natural antioxidants can reduce this type of neuropathic damage by blocking free radicals. Green tea also reduces glucose levels and helps prevent or reverse cataracts. It requires 5 to 8 cups of green tea per day to reverse cataracts. Two to three cups per day will achieve the prevention of cataracts for many people.

What nutritional supplements can help reduce and treat neuropathy?

Alpha lipoic acid slows or prevents the onset of diabetes, reduces neuropathy pain associated diabetes, reduces blood sugar levels, and protects the heart, kidneys, and small blood vessels. Unsaturated fats and fatty acids are very important to reduce inflammation and stop neuropathy pain. One of causes of diabetic neuropathy is the effect of a chronic deficiency of prostacyclin and prostaglandins. The diabetic patient is unable to convert the essential fatty acid (EFA) linoleic acid into gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA improves diabetic neuropathy if given long enough to work. Evening Primrose Oil is a GLA and takes about two months for the EPO to start having an effect on reducing neuropathy pain. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in high quantities in salmon and are anti-inflammatory. Almonds and walnuts may be used as snacks and are beneficial for patients with diabetic neuropathy.

B Vitamins are important in treating all types of neuropathy. Vitamin B1 (thiamin) benefits alcoholic neuropathy can often benefit from combining benfotiamine, the fat soluble form of vitamin B1, with vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. Sublingual methylcobalamin Vitamin B12 or injected vitamin B12 can treat neuropathy caused by this deficiency is whose symptoms include numbness, pins-and-needles, or a burning feeling. This can prevent or delay neuropathy in diabetics without neuropathy.c Dr R Stone, MD-India




Dr R Stone has a MD in Alternative Medicine from India, MBA in Finance from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, and BBA from the UT at Austin. Dr R Stone also trained in ICART, Laser Therapy and NAET. Memberships include Cambridge Who's Who, Stanford Who's Who, World Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, Kunsthaus Museum (Zurich), Austin Modern Art Museum, New York Metropolitan Museum of Art, Dali Foundation, and Chagall Foundation. Dr R Stone owns [http://www.MediciGalleries.com] and [http://ErectileDysfunctionPlace.com]





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2012年9月13日 星期四

All About Diabetic Neuropathy


The tingling, burning, itching, and numbness of diabetic neuropathy are well known to all too many diabetics. But did you know that the condition can be triggered not just by high blood sugars but also by too much salt?

After five to ten years of poorly controlled diabetes, many diabetics experience a form of nerve damage known as diabetic neuropathy. This condition manifests itself in an astonishing number of ways. There can be the well-known


Numbness or insensitivity to pain or temperature
Tingling, burning, or prickling
Sensitivity to touch, even light touch and
Sharp pains and cramps

of peripheral neuropathy. But there can also be the


Bloating, alternating constipation and diarrhea (diarrhea is worse at night), nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite
Copious sweating while eating
Dizziness when moving from seated to standing position
Overheating and
Problems with bladder control

of autonomic neuropathy. And there can even be the


Aching behind an eye
Chest or abdominal pain sometimes mistaken for angina, heart attack, or appendicitis
Double vision
Inability to focus the eye
Pain in the chest, stomach, or flank
Pain in the front of a thigh
Severe pain in the lower back or pelvis and
Problems with hearing

of focal neuropathy, all caused or aggravated by prolonged, uncontrolled, high blood sugars in diabetes.

All of these wide-ranging varieties of nerve damage in diabetes stem from a combination of high blood sugars, deficiencies in antioxidants, high triglycerides and cholesterol, and too much salt. Uncontrolled blood sugars cause an accumulation of hydroxyl radicals, peroxinitries, and superoxides, all of which soak up antioxidants needed to protect nerves. If there are enough antioxidants in circulation, however, the free radicals don't do damage.

When there is a shortfall in available antioxidants, free radicals attack the structure of a nerve, causing it to be riddled with holes, known as vacuoles. When enough vacuoles accumulate, the nerve simply dies.

Treating this panoply of nerve problems is accomplished, as you might imagine, with antioxidants. The best-studied antioxidant for this purpose is alpha-lipoic acid. Relatively high doses of alpha-lipoic acid, 600 to 1800 milligrams a day (the absolute maximum you should take), often restore sensation and then relieve burning over a period of 3 to 4 weeks.

You do have to continue to take the alpha-lipoic acid to get its benefits, and you should take a formula that combines alpha-lipoic acid with the B-vitamin biotin, which alpha-lipoic acid depletes. Or, even better, keep your blood sugars under control. Just a few weeks of keeping blood sugars under 100 mg/dl (5.5 mM) all the time, not just after meals, begins to reverse diabetic neuropathy in noticeable ways.

There are several other ways to treat this condition:


Acupuncture relieves pain, but it won't work if you are on certain antidepressants. That's because the mechanisms through which acupuncture relieves pain depends on an adequate amount of serotonin at the nerves. If you are still building up serotonin levels, the acupuncture will not work.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can relieve pain caused by neuropathy in the hands and feet. Just don't start with the setting too high.
And if dizziness is a problem, try elastic stockings. Keeping circulation going to the brain prevents vertigo.




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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Understanding the Need For Diabetic Neuropathy Socks


Diabetes is among the most difficult conditions to manage. Caused by a defect in insulin production, either the absence or inadequacy of it, this condition poses a lot of risks and is known to lead to many different complications all detrimental to one's health. All are aware that when one suffers from diabetes, they most likely are prone, or may already have existing foot problems. Why a diabetic easily develops foot problems is due to the conditions manifested by the disease itself. Though diabetes is characterized by other symptoms as well like very high blood sugar levels, excessive thirst and increased urination, poor circulation and neuropathy are the very culprits leading thousands of diabetics every year to permanent loss of limbs.

As the peripheral nervous system is responsible for the transmission of information from the brain to the peripheries, at the same time sending back sensory from the peripheries to the brain, any damage to it would interfere with all these connections. This is very common in diabetes. When that happens, any injury to the feet is not easily recognized by the brain, leaving them untreated for a long period of time. Eventually, infections would develop leading to complications. Poor circulation is caused by the disease's tendency to harden and block the arteries, limiting transport of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the rest of the body. The extremities become the most deprived areas when circulation is not good. Poor circulation slows down healing and even none at all. The lack of circulating blood reaching the injuries leads to gangrene, or death of tissues, which would have to eventually require amputation.

Sure there are treatments for diabetes available around. But like any other condition, preventing complications from ever occurring in the first place is always the best approach. In diabetes, when medication is required, taking it as scheduled is important. Regular blood sugar checks as well as other preventive measures advised by the physician should be strictly followed. Foot problems are most prevented by protecting your feet from any forms of injury. There are many socks intended for diabetics made available for those with the condition. Socks intended for peripheral neuropathy, which is as easily available, is best for diabetics. They are made with the most ideal fit to provide utmost comfort and relief from pressure. Materials are well chosen for these kinds of socks to provide needed warmth for colder climates.




As peripheral neuropathy often demonstrates numbness and tingling sensations of the hands and feet, and oftentimes lack of sensation at all, neuropathy socks for diabetics is designed to give ultimate protection to the feet. Some peripheral neuropathy socks are even laced with electro massage devices to improve circulation. Check them out at drugstores, local shoe departments and online. Start protecting your feet by being wise in choosing your socks.





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Diabetes and Neuropathy, Be Aware


Neuropathies are a variety of ailments which arise when nerves of the peripheral nervous system - the nervous system aside from the brain and spinal cord - are damaged; this is most commonly referred to as peripheral neuropathy. Approximately 50% to 70% of the people who suffer with diabetes, in all probability will have some form of neuropathy. Most often it affects the motor nerves which control muscle movement and the sensory nerves which are responsible for our awareness of sensations such as coldness or pain. It first becomes apparent in the extremities but can manifest itself in the heart, blood vessels, bladder and intestines

Types of Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic Neuropathy is often classified into four distinct categories: peripheral, autonomic, proximal and focal. Since neuropathy can affect nerves throughout the body this classification is dependent on which part of the body is affected.

(a) Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type and causes loss of feeling or pain in the hands, arms, toes, feet and legs. It can also cause muscle weakness and foot deformities. Due to the loss of feeling, injuries can go unnoticed, resulting in infection(s) and additional complications.

(b) Autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves which support the heart and blood vessels, the urinary tract, the lungs and eyes, the sex organs, the sweat glands and the digestive system. Autonomic neuropathy can also be responsible for hypoglycemia unawareness whereby a person no longer experience the warning symptoms of low blood sugar levels.

(c) Proximal neuropathy affects the thighs, hips, or buttocks resulting in weakness of the legs. Due to weakness of the legs it becomes difficult to go from a sitting to standing position and assistance may be required. This affliction is more common among persons with Type 2 diabetes.

(d) Focal neuropathy affects one nerve or a group of nerves leading to muscle weakness or pain. It can affect the nerves which control the facial muscles, eyes, ears, chest, abdomen, pelvis and lower back, thighs, legs and feet. It is painful and unpredictable, existing mostly among older adults suffering with diabetes. It tends to improve by itself and does not cause long-term damage.

Symptoms

The symptoms are dependent on: the type of neuropathy contracted, the nerve(s) affected (autonomic, motor, sensory) and their location. It is not uncommon for many types of neuropathy to affect all three types of nerves. Some neuropathies may appear suddenly while others develop gradually.

(a) Autonomic Nerve Damage: Swollen abdomen, Blurred vision, Feeling full quickly, Nausea/ Vomiting after eating, Constipation, Diarrhoea, Weight loss, Dizziness/Fainting, Overflow and/or Urinary incontinence, Difficulty beginning to urinate, Abnormal perspiring, Sensitivity to heat, Impotence in men and Vaginal dryness in women.

(b) Motor Nerve Damage: Experiencing difficulty to move a part of the body (loss of balance and coordination), Lack of dexterity and muscle control, Cramps or Spasms, Loss of muscle tissue and difficulty swallowing or breathing.

(c) Sensory Nerve Damage: Nerve pain, Tingling or numbness, Burning sensations, Lack of coordination and a Lessening or absence of sensation to such an extent that nothing can be felt.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Presently there's no cure for diabetic neuropathy. Treatments are focused on prevention of further damage to the nerves and relief of pain (to those already afflicted) and are often determined by the extent to which the ailment has progressed. Antidepressants (low doses), Analgesics and anticonvulsant drugs may be prescribed for relief of burning, tingling and pain. Pills, creams, special diets and therapies to stimulate the nerves and muscles are also employed. Non-medicinal therapies may include: meditation, yoga, acupuncture, chiropractic massages and cognitive therapy. All treatments depend on the type of nerve problem and symptom.

Good foot health is particularly important and special preventative steps should be taken to avoid degenerative progress of the disease:

(a) Avoid continuous pressure on the knees and elbows

(b) Do not walk barefooted

(c) Avoid getting your feet too hot or cold

(d) Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap

(e) Dry your feet well and use non-medicated powders with shoes, socks and stockings

(f) Apply cream or lotion to keep foot, especially heels smooth.

(g) Daily foot exams, checking for cuts, blisters, calluses or bruises.

The best way of preventing diabetic neuropathy is by adhering to the recommended treatment for your diabetes as prescribed by your doctor. Taking your diabetes medicines or insulin, blood glucose monitoring, a proper diet and physical activity will help keep your blood sugar levels under control. Keeping your blood glucose level as close to normal as possible will help protect the nerves throughout the entire body.

c 2010 Goldeneramart.com - All Rights Reserved.




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