HEALTH
Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment Options
When it comes to treating diabetic neuropathy, there are some options available. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may recommend medication, physical therapy, or even surgery. Adrian diabetic neuropathy can be debilitating, so it is important to work with your doctor to find the best treatment plan for you.
What is diabetic neuropathy?
It is a type of nerve injury that occurs in diabetics. Diabetic neuropathy can cause various issues, including discomfort, sensory loss, and trouble walking or moving. Diabetic neuropathy can also cause digestive, urinary, and blood pressure issues. High blood sugar levels can harm nerves over time, causing them to malfunction.
How is diabetic neuropathy diagnosed?
If there is suspicion of diabetic neuropathy, you may get a referral to a specialist for further testing. Your doctor will likely start by doing a physical exam and asking about your medical history. The specialist may order blood tests or imaging studies to rule out other conditions.
At the specialist’s office, you may undergo a nerve conduction study. This test measures the electrical activity of your nerves to see that everything is functioning. You may also have a skin biopsy, in which a small piece of skin is removed and examined for signs of nerve damage.
Now that you are aware of the fundamental aspects of diabetic neuropathy, here are the treatment options to expect:
Medications
Some medications can help relieve the pain of diabetic neuropathy. These include over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen and acetaminophen and prescription medications such as gabapentin and amitriptyline. Your doctor may also recommend topical treatments, such as creams or patches that contain medication.
Physical therapy
If you have diabetic neuropathy, physical therapy can help relieve your pain and improve your mobility. Your physical therapist can develop a custom treatment plan for you, including exercises, massages, and electrical stimulation. You need to be consistent with your treatments to see the best results.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct problems caused by diabetic neuropathy. The procedure will depend on the specific problem you are experiencing. For example, you might need surgery to release the pressure on nerves that are causing pain. You might also need surgery to repair damaged blood vessels or to remove diseased tissue.
Complementary and alternative treatments
Some complementary and alternative treatments may help relieve the pain of diabetic neuropathy. These include acupuncture, yoga, and massage. Some people also find relief with herbal supplements such as ginkgo Biloba and St. John’s wort. Consult your doctor before trying any of these treatments.
Lifestyle changes
In addition to medication and therapy, you can make several lifestyle changes to help relieve the pain of diabetic neuropathy. These include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and regular exercise. You should also avoid drinking alcohol and eating foods high in sugar. Making these changes can help improve your overall health and quality of life.
Diabetic neuropathy is a severe condition that can lead to some problems. Working with your doctor at Michigan Pain Specialists is important to find the best treatment plan for you. With the proper treatment, you can manage your pain and live a full and active life.
Umar Nisar was born and raised in the busy city of Abbottabad. As a journalist, Umar Nisar has contributed to many online publications including PAK Today and the Huffing Post. In regards to academics, Umar Nisar earned a degree in business from the Abbottabad UST, Havelian. Umar Nisar follows the money and covers all aspects of emerging tech here at The Hear Up.
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