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Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that causes nerve damage in diabetes patients. It is a serious and extremely common diabetes complication that develops over a period of several years, even decades. The condition most often damages the nerves in the legs and feet, wherein it is described as peripheral neuropathy. Due to the resulting loss of sensation, individuals are vulnerable to injuries and wounds that remain undetected. This in turn increases the risk of infections, since wound healing is impaired in diabetes. To lower the risk of such complications and get relief from nerve pain, you can take some simple precautions.
Managing Diabetic Neuropathy And Related Complications
Control Blood Sugar Levels
Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar levels is the primary cause of diabetic neuropathy. To lower the risk of nerve damage and pain, it is crucial to keep a check on blood sugar levels.
Follow A Foot Care Routine
As neuropathy most commonly affects the feet, diabetic patients need to safeguard against foot injuries or infections, using protective closed-toe footwear at all times, along with clean dry socks. Regularly inspecting your feet will also help with early detection of any blisters, cuts, or bruises so that they can be treated quickly before an infection sets in.
Have Warm Baths
Warm baths can help soothe the symptoms of the condition, increasing blood circulation throughout the body.
Get Regular Exercise
Exercise can benefit you in more ways than one. Physical activity is known to help improve blood sugar management and blood flow through the body, in turn helping reduce pain and discomfort.
Try An Essential Oil Massage
Some essential oils, such as chamomile and Roman lavender, are thought to increase blood circulation in the body. They also possess pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve pain.
Take Your Medications
Medications can help those struggling to manage the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. Depending on your condition, your doctor could recommend prescription medications including anti-seizure and antidepressant drugs, as they are known to ease nerve pain. Such medications should never be taken without a prescription.
Apply Capsaicin Cream
The compound capsaicin is found naturally in chilli peppers. It is said to control a chemical called substance P, which helps send pain signals through the nerves. Capsaicin cream or ointment can be applied to areas that are affected by diabetic nerve pain. It acts as a temporary pain reliever. Capsaicin products may cause skin irritation in some people, so it’s best to do a skin test on a small area before you begin using such products.
The best way to prevent nerve damage and releve is to keep your blood sugar levels under control. This requires strict monitoring of blood sugar levels and adherence to the treatment, diet, and lifestyle recommendations provided by your doctor. Although diabetic neuropathy and nerve pain has no known cure, making these changes to your lifestyle can help provide relief and ensure better quality of life.
