
Tips On Peripheral Neuropathy & Saving Money With Diabetes
Recent diabetes management classes have been well attended, with great questions being asked by the participants. If they are interested in these questions then, hopefully you are too! Learn about peripheral neuropathy and saving money when you have diabetes.
What is peripheral neuropathy and how is it treated?
Neuropathy or nerve damage occurs in 50-70% of people with diabetes. Peripheral neuropathy involves the extremities, especially the legs and feet. There is no real cure for peripheral neuropathy but the best way to prevent or reduce the symptoms are with properly controlled blood sugars. Controlling blood pressure and not smoking in also critical. Proper and diligent foot care needs to be maintained and should include seeing a podiatrist and always keeping feet covered always with supportive shoes and breathable socks. Common symptoms include tingling, shooting and stabbing pain in the legs and feet. Changes in sensitivity and temperature are often noted and total numbness may present later. Peripheral neuropathy can lead to leg and foot weakness with loss of balance resulting in possible severe injuries. Finding relief with your physician’s help and approval can be accomplished. Although not curable, peripheral neuropathy can be treated. Some remedies are easy at home treatments including heat and cold packs. When using heat and cold packs, the general rule is 10 minutes on the area but not directly on the skin (use a wash cloth or pillow case) and 20 minutes off. Some people prefer heat treatment and others cold. It is just a personal preference.
When using heat
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