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Therapy for Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy, or damage to the nerves as a result of diabetes, occurs in 60 to 70 percent of people with the disease, according to the National Institutes of Health's National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC). Depending on which nerves are affected, neuropathy can manifest itself in an assortment of symptoms and treatment depends on the form and severity of neuropathy.

  1. Types of Neuropathy

    • The NDIC cites four types of diabetic neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy--the most common form--causes pain, tingling or numbness in the limbs, hands or feet. Autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves that control body systems and can cause problems with the digestive system, sex organs, sweat glands, heart and blood vessels, lungs and eyes, as well as cause unawareness of hypoglycemia. Proximal neuropathy causes pain in the buttocks, hips or thighs. Focal neuropathy causes sudden weakness of one nerve or a group of nerves serving a particular part of the body.

    Glucose Control

    • Get control of your glucose levels. No matter which form of neuropathy presents itself, the first line of defense--and the best prevention--is to maintain good glucose control. It will be the first thing your doctor will recommend if neuropathy develops.

    Pain Control

    • Antidepressants, anticonvulsants and opioids or opioid-like drugs can be helpful in stopping the pain of neuropathy. In addition to oral medications, sprays, creams, patches and oils might be helpful. Discuss your options with your doctor and be specific about the type of pain you experience.

    Foot Care

    • The nerves of the feet are likeliest to be affected by neuropathy. Take good care of your feet, inspecting them daily for any sign of problems such as blisters, cuts, swelling or redness. Use moisturizer on your feet and always wear slippers or well-fitted shoes to avoid injury.

    Gastrointestinal Problems

    • Changes in eating patterns or prescription medication might reduce nausea, vomiting, indigestion or bowel problems associated with diabetic neuropathy. Discuss these issues with your doctor.

    Sexual Difficulties

    • For women, lubricants can help with vaginal dryness caused by neuropathy. A gynecologist can offer treatments for arousal and orgasm difficulties. Erectile dysfunction in men can be treated with medications, vacuum devices or surgery.

    Weakness and Dizziness

    • If neuropathy causes blood circulation or blood pressure problems, combat dizziness by sitting or standing slowly. It might also help to wear elastic stockings or raise the head of the bed. Blood pressure medications or adding salt to the diet can also help, according to the NDIC. Loss of coordination and muscle weakness can be helped with physical therapy.

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