Tips for Managing Your Diabetic Neuropathy

Understanding diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that’s caused as high blood sugar levels injure your nerves over time. Nearly half of people with diabetes deal with this type of neuropathy at some point.

Usually, diabetic neuropathy affects your extremities, causing tingling, pain, or numbness in your feet and legs. It can also affect other parts of your body, including your eyes, stomach, and hands.

If you live with diabetes, any unusual sensation isn’t something you should ignore. See a doctor to get a handle on your diabetic neuropathy to prevent further nerve damage and its potentially debilitating effects.

Tips to manage your diabetic neuropathy

Excess sugar in your blood can cause nerve damage, especially over time, and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy come on slowly. You can take steps to prevent or delay nerve damage by adopting healthy habits. Here are our top tips if you’re living with diabetic neuropathy.

Know what to look for

It’s important to be able to identify diabetic neuropathy in its early phases. Note any:

• Tingling
• Weakness
• Numbness
• Pain
• Sensitivity to touch

If you experience any odd symptoms, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of diabetic neuropathy specialists.

Check your feet every day

One of the biggest problems with diabetic neuropathy is that it often causes the loss of sensation in your feet. This, in turn, can lead to foot injuries going unaddressed, allowing them to fester unchecked.

Make it a point to check your feet on a daily basis. If you notice any sores, keep an eye on them. If they’re slow to heal, talk to a doctor promptly.

To minimize foot problems, it can help to always wear comfortable, properly fitted shoes that protect your feet. Keep your feet clean and your toenails neatly trimmed.

Watch your blood sugar

It’s important to work with your doctor to keep your glucose levels in check. Together, you can find a medication that works for you, and it’s critical that you take it consistently. You also can make lifestyle changes on your own to help your body balance your blood sugar, such as:

• Quitting smoking
• Eating a balanced, healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight
• Managing stress

You don’t have to manage your diabetic neuropathy on your own. Our team specializes in treating this condition, addressing your symptoms while minimizing further nerve damage. To talk to one of our neuropathy specialists, call our office in East Fort Lauderdale, Florida, or request an appointment online today.