Diabetic neuropathy, sometimes referred to as diabetic nerve pain is a condition related to nerve damage in patients living with diabetes. The condition develops over time, and individuals who’ve been living with diabetes for a longer time period are more at risk of diabetic neuropathy. Although the exact cause of nerve damage in patients with diabetes isn’t clearly understood, it is believed that high blood sugar levels over time damage blood vessels thus there’s interference in the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the nerves, which results in damage. Nerve damage cannot be reversed once it has happened, but there are various ways to improve the quality of life. This is possible by slowing down the progression of diabetic neuropathy, lessening effects of symptoms, and reducing the risk for further damage.[1] [2]
Does Diabetic Neuropathy Go Away On Its Own?
Diabetic neuropathy cannot go away on its own. The best way to manage diabetic nerve pain is through taking various medication as prescribed by your doctor and incorporating that with home remedies to ease the pain and symptoms as well. Other than that, having treatment plans that help keep blood sugar low and reducing any risk factors that will worsen the condition can also help. Needless say, making necessary lifestyle changes may be beneficial in not only keeping blood sugar levels within the normal range but also help improve your overall well-being.
To better manage blood sugar levels, you should ask your doctor for advice, and if need be, have insulin shots to regulate your blood sugar levels. There are a variety of pain medications you can take, and it might take a while for you to find your perfect match. That is pain medication that doesn’t have adverse side effects, can interact with other medication, and above all, helps relieve the nerve pain. Other ways of treating diabetic neuropathy include; surgery to destroy the affected nerve or relieve compression from the nerve, having a pain relief device implanted, and electrical nerve stimulation to help relieve the pain. Adding to that, you can have special aids such as orthopedic shoes to make walking much easier and hand/foot braces to help with muscle weakness.[2] [3]
Natural Remedies For Diabetic Neuropathy
If you have diabetic neuropathy, there are several natural/home remedies you can try to help ease the pain as well as maintain general good health. It is important that as a diabetic person, you make the right dietary choices that won’t trigger a rise in your blood sugar level. At the same time, you need to eat nutritious foods which will boost your immune system and body health. Such foods include; fresh fruits and vegetables, foods rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, healthy fats including vegetable oils, nuts, avocado, and low-fat dairy products, lean meats and even poultry products.
On the other hand, you should avoid excess sugars, highly-refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and smoking. Exercising can also help with diabetic neuropathy in aiding with weight-management, metabolic action rate, strength building, and good body form. Adding to that, always ensure you get enough sleep and embrace ways of managing stress. It is also crucial that you keep a close watch on your feet which you can do by, clipping your toenails carefully, checking for sores, wounds, cuts, and bruises on your feet, and washing your feet regularly and moisturizing them to prevent dryness. Also, avoid walking barefooted, and visit a podiatrist regularly. The essence of better feet care is because due to nerve damage, there may be reduced feeling, thus making it difficult to note any injury on the feet and legs.[2] [4]
Conclusion
Diabetic neuropathy is a common condition for patients with diabetes. As a matter of fact, it is estimated that about 60-70% of individuals with diabetes are likely to develop diabetic nerve pain[4]. Diabetic neuropathy cannot be reversed, nor does it go away on its own. However, there are various treatment plans which can help with reducing the risk of further nerve damage by slowing down the condition, and pain medication to relieve pain. Additionally, you can incorporate various home remedies including healthy eating, exercising, stress management, and good feet care habits, to aid with improving the condition.
Also Read:
- FDA Approved Opioid for Diabetic Neuropathy Pain
- Diabetes: Exercise Therapy for Diabetic Neuropathy Pain- Animal Lab Study
- Diabetic Neuropathy: Classification, Types, Causes, Risk Factors, Signs, Symptoms, Treatment
- How Common Is Diabetic Neuropathy Or Is It A Rare Disease?
- Best Exercise/Activities For Diabetic Neuropathy
- Is There Is A Surgery For Diabetic Neuropathy?
