How to Help Manage Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy

Regularly having high blood sugar levels can negatively affect your nerves and lead to diabetes and eventually diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is one of the most common types of neuropathy, affecting over 60% of people who have diabetes.

Diabetes affects the nerves that control most of your sensations and movements. It can damage the small blood vessels in your body and interfere with your nerves' abilities to send signals.

Sometimes, neuropathy is one of the first sign of diabetes, but nerve problems can still develop within 10 years of being diagnosed. The longer you have diabetes, the more of a risk you have for getting neuropathy.

What's the #1 thing that can help?

If you already have neuropathy, it's important to make sure you're keeping your blood sugar levels in check to help slow progression and reduce pain and discomfort.

Glucose management is a highly effective way of reducing symptoms and the progression of neuropathy. Getting your glucose under control can not reverse the damage that is done to your nerves already, but it can prevent any further damage from occurring.

There are also other ways you can help manage your symptoms:

Eating a healthy diet

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and foods rich in Omegas 3 can help improve neuropathy symptoms.

Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that help prevent nerve damage, improve nerve function, and fight inflammation. Whole grains and nuts contain important B vitamins that are important for overall nerve health.

Legumes contain magnesium which plays an essential role in nerve transmission and regeneration. And Omegas 3 have been known to help improve blood sugar regulation and control inflammation.

Regularly exercising

Regular exercise can help improve blood circulation which can help strengthen nerve tissues. Ideal exercises include aerobic, balance, and stretching activities like brisk walking, swimming, bicycling, and yoga.

Quitting smoking

Smoking restricts your blood flow to your nerve cells and damages nerves that are responsible for your smell and taste.

Soaking in a warm bath

Taking a warm bath can help soothe and alleviate pain as the warm water increases blood circulation throughout your body.

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