Diabetic neuropathy – symptoms and treatment

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Diabetic Neuropathy – Symptoms and Treatment Awareness about the causes and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy helps to deal with the condition properly.

Neuropathy effects can be reduced to a great extent by following appropriate treatment.

Diabetic neuropathy is a major complication faced by people with diabetes. People with longer standing diabetes are at a high risk of having nerve damage. It is mainly caused by the abnormalities common to diabetes such as sustained high blood sugar levels.

About half of the people diagnosed with diabetes suffer from a form of nerve damage that affects their feet, legs and eyes. It can often affect nerves that control bodily functions such as digestion, blood pressure and heart rate.

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Different Types of Diabetic Neuropathy There are different types of diabetic neuropathy. Symptoms can vary depending on the type and the nerves that are affected. Each affects different parts of the body in various ways.

Neuropathies are classified based on the affected nerves: •

Peripheral neuropathy – It is a condition affecting the peripheral nerves. It mainly affects areas such as the toes, feet, legs, hands, and arms.

•

Autonomic neuropathy – It involves the nerves that carry information from the brain and spinal cord to the heart, intestines, bladder, pupils, sweat glands, and blood vessels.

•

Femoral neuropathy – It is commonly seen in people with type 2 diabetes. It begins with pain in the thighs, hips, or legs, usually on one side of the body.

•

Thoracic/lumbar radiculopathy – Common symptoms include localized back and neck pain.

•

Charcot’s joint - Also called neuropathic arthropathy, Charcot’s joint is a diabetes induced condition that affects the joints.

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Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy The symptoms can range from mild to severe. Symptoms include numbness, tingling or pain (usually in the feet or hands), muscle weakness, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, bladder problems, and erectile dysfunction in men or vaginal dryness in women. Symptoms may worsen over time, which could make life very difficult for people.

Therefore, appropriate measures should be taken to reduce the risk of diabetic neuropathy.

How to Prevent or Reduce the Risk of Diabetic Neuropathy Physicians diagnose the condition on the basis of symptoms and a physical exam. A normal glucose or blood sugar level is essential to safeguard your health. Therefore, it is important to keep your blood glucose levels as close to the normal range as possible. Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, which give you vital information about your diabetes control.

To slow the progression of neuropathy, it is essential to:• • • • •

Control blood sugar levels Monitor blood sugar Eat a balanced diet Exercise regularly Limit or avoid alcohol http://www.hqbk.com/

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Several treatment programs and medications are available to prevent or delay the onset of further problems. In a reputable healthcare center, physicians recommend treatment methods based on the symptoms and the type of neuropathy. Generally, treatment focuses on reducing symptoms and preventing the condition from getting worse.

•

Medications - to relieve diabetic nerve pain, physicians prescribe medications including antidepressants and narcotic pain medicines.

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Chiropractic care - this treatment approach concentrates on correcting misalignments in the spine.

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Physical therapy – Physical therapy treatment programs such as exercises, stretching, and massage are effective to restore lost balance and to strengthen the foot and leg muscles.

Approach a healthcare center and talk with your physician about treatment that can reduce your pain and improve your health and mental well-being.

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