If you are one of the 29.1 million Americans with diabetes, you may be at risk for diabetic neuropathy. This condition occurs when high blood sugar levels damage your nerves. Symptoms can include numbness and tingling in your feet and hands, pain, burning, and weakness. Left untreated, diabetic neuropathy can lead to severe complications, including foot ulcers, infection, and amputation. Fortunately, you can successfully treat diabetic neuropathy by visiting a specialist in diabetic neuropathy in Baltimore. Here are some tips on how to manage the condition.
Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
If you live with diabetic neuropathy, you will need to work closely with your doctor to develop an effective treatment plan. It may include medication, dietary changes, and exercise. Your doctor may also recommend that you see a specialist in diabetic neuropathy.
Make Dietary Changes
Your doctor may also recommend dietary changes to help manage your diabetic neuropathy. You should aim to eat a healthy diet low in sugar and saturated fat. You should also ensure you are getting enough fiber, magnesium, and B vitamins, which can all help protect your nerves. Additionally, you need to take a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help preserve nerve function.
Exercise
Regular exercise is also vital for managing diabetic neuropathy. Exercise can help improve your blood sugar control, which can help protect your nerves. It can also help improve your overall health and well-being. Consult with your doctor to develop an exercise plan that is right for you. Exercises such as walking, biking, and swimming are all excellent options.
Maintain Healthy Weight
If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can also help manage your diabetic neuropathy. Extra pounds put stress on your nerves, making them more susceptible to damage. Losing weight can help reduce the amount of stress placed on your nerves and may help improve your symptoms.
Quit Drinking Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol is known to increase the risk of nerve damage, so it is best to avoid drinking if you have diabetic neuropathy. Smoking, on the other hand, can make your symptoms worse. It is therefore essential to quit smoking if you have this condition.
See a Specialist in Diabetic Neuropathy
If you live with diabetic neuropathy, it is crucial to see a specialist in the condition. A specialist can help you develop an individualized treatment plan that best meets your needs. They may also offer support and advice on how to manage your condition.
Take Medications
Several medications can be used to help manage diabetic neuropathy. These include drugs to improve blood sugar control, treat pain, and medications to protect your nerves. Talk to your doctor about the best medication for you.
In summary, if you live with diabetic neuropathy, it is important to work closely with your doctor to develop an effective treatment plan. This may include medication, dietary changes, and exercise. It is also essential to see a specialist in diabetic neuropathy. Several medications can be used to help manage the condition.
