Those who have diabetes can suffer from numerous complications. One of the most common complications is nerve damage, also known as diabetic neuropathy. Some individuals experience this complication at the onset of diabetes, while for others, it takes years to develop. If you are suffering from neuropathy, there are a number of steps that you can take to prevent or even slow its effects.
The first step to treating or slowing the effects of neuropathy is to understand the symptoms.
Symptoms of Diabetic
Neuropathy
The most common symptoms of diabetic
neuropathy begin in the lower extremities of the body, such as the
feet and toes. At the onset of diabetic neuropathy, most people
experience tingling, burning, pain, and numbness in the area.
If left untreated, the condition can cause you to lose feeling entirely. This can be significantly dangerous, especially because it prevents you from realizing if you’ve stepped on something sharp of if you are suffering from an injury.
Once your feet and toes are affected, the condition moves to the nerves of your digestive system. As a result, you may experience an inability to digest food, nausea, constipation, and heartburn.
Finally, at its worst stages, diabetic neuropathy attacks the heart. When the heart’s nerves are damaged, you may experience a faster heart rate and an inability to decipher the signs of an oncoming heart attack.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should talk to your physician about the proper exams and tests to take.
Manage Your Condition Before it Worsens
The key to dealing with diabetic neuropathy is to manage your diabetes well. Type II Diabetes Program Oakland CA works with patients to manage their blood sugar levels. With the supervision and advice of a health specialist, treatment of diabetic neuropathy includes developing a diet plan low in sugar content, regular appointments for check-ups, and management of the diabetic neuropathy to prevent further development. The specialist may also recommend more frequent visits with your doctor to ensure that your health is being managed with the upmost care.
In addition, another advantage to working with a specialist to manage your neuropathy is that it provides you with the opportunity to work with someone who understands what you are going through. Diabetic neuropathy specialists understand your struggle, and as a result, they are best equipped to provide you with the diet recommendations that you need for a healthier lifestyle. Visit our website for more information.
