Diabetic Neuropathy

Debra Murray

What is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a painful condition that affects many people with diabetes. It occurs when nerves are damaged by high levels of blood sugar. It is not clear how excessive sugar can injure nerves, but it is thought that high blood sugar stresses blood vessels, which in turn are less able to supply nerves with nutrients. The resulting nerve damage leads to a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild tingling to severe pain and loss of function. If the condition is not managed, amputation of extremities may be needed. Nerve damage cannot be reversed, but several treatments are available to reduce symptoms and to prevent further nerve damage.

What does diabetic neuropathy feel like?

Signs of neuropathy typically begin in the feet and legs, and then progress to the hands and feet. This is sometimes referred to as ‘stocking and glove’ presentation. This common form of diabetic neuropathy is referred to as peripheral neuropathy. Since the symptoms are progressive, they may be very mild at first. You may become aware of them as they worsen over time. Because nerves are responsible for transmitting many different types of sensations and movements, a lot of people report different symptoms.

Diabetic neuropathy symptoms include:
-tingling sensation
-burning sensation
-numbness
-reduced or increased sensitivity to pain, touch, or temperature
-muscle weakness
-muscle contractions
-loss of balance, coordination, or reflexes
-foot pain, ulcers, or infection

Other forms of diabetic neuropathy

In addition to peripheral neuropathy, which is described here, there are other less common types of diabetic neuropathy.

Autonomic Neuropathy

affects internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, eyes, and digestive system.

Proximal Neuropathy

affects muscles in the glutes, thighs, and hips.

Focal Neuropathy

affects only one nerve or nerve group, which can be located anywhere in the body.

Treatments For Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy natural treatment is available. These can be used alone or in combination with other medications. Diabetic nerve pain treatment focuses on preventing further progression of nerve damage and relieving pain. Doctors may prescribe medications to relieve pain, but some treatments may work for some patients and not others. Be sure to talk to your doctor. Extended use of any medication, even over-the-counter medications, may be unsafe, and they may interact with other medications.

Diabetic Neuropathy Natural Treatment

Pain Relief Creams

There are creams made of natural ingredients and oils that can help soothe and calm achy muscles and relieve pain. Some creams work by increasing circulation, and other creams work by numbing the area. Capsaicin is best known for burning your mouth when you eat hot peppers, but it can also relieve pain when applied to the skin as a cream. BLUESPRING brand Foot & Leg Comfort Cream with emu oil helps to improve circulation, revitalizes tired legs and feet, and helps to reduce swelling.

Supplements

Antioxidants and natural herbal remedies may be beneficial to some. Glucose support supplements may help to maintain healthy levels of blood sugars.

Acupuncture

One of the most commonly used alternative treatments is acupuncture, but keep in mind that it may take repeated sessions to notice results.

TENS

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation is a type of treatment, which can be performed at home, using painless electrical impulses applied to the skin to stimulate nerves.

Home Remedies For Nerve Pain

The best way to manage diabetic neuropathy at home is to simply take good care of yourself. Of course, this is easier said than done, but making healthy decisions can greatly impact disease progression and symptoms. To take care of yourself, eat a healthy, balanced diet, keeping in mind your diet restrictions discussed with your doctor. Stay active and try to get a moderate amount of exercise and maintain a healthy body weight. Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar at safe levels, and limit alcohol and tobacco use. Managing a health condition can add an extra level of stress to your life, but try to reduce or eliminate stressors to help manage diabetes and neuropathy symptoms.

How to Prevent Further Nerve Damage

The best way to prevent diabetic neuropathy is to properly manage your diabetes. Because high blood sugar levels are damaging to blood vessels and nerves, try to keep your levels in a range that you have discussed with your doctor. This will involve regular monitoring of blood sugar, and it may involve insulin injections and medications.

If not controlled, diabetes can lead to painful and debilitating peripheral neuropathy, causing nerve pain in the extremities. Be sure to take care of yourself and stay on top of your treatment plan. Always discuss any plans for natural remedies and home care with your doctor.

Sources

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/nerve-damage-diabetic-neuropathies

http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/peripheral-neuropathy-and-diabetes

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-neuropathy/basics/definition/con-20033336 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diabetic_neuropathy#Prognosis

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/foot-problems

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