How to Prevent Diabetic Neuropathy

According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetic neuropathy is "the presence of symptoms and/or signs of peripheral nerve dysfunction in people with diabetes." Diabetic neuropathy should be suspected in all patients with Type 2 diabetes and in patients who have had Type 1 diabetes for more than five years. There are several classes of diabetic neuropathies, including sensory neuropathies and autonomic neuropathies. The most common complications of diabetic neuropathy are foot ulcers and foot amputation.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Detect diabetes early. Early diagnosis of diabetes facilitates proper glycemic control in the early stages of diabetes and can prevent diabetic neuropathy.

2. Control your blood sugar. Clinical trials showed that keeping mean blood glucose level below 155 mg per dl led to a 60 percent reduction in the risk of developing diabetic neuropathy.

3. Inspect your feet daily. Check for fissures, dry skin, fissures, plantar callus formation and infection around the toenails, and between the toes.

4. Use proper and comfortable footwear. Consult a podiatrist for how to buy properly fitted shoes. This will help to prevent issues, such as calluses and corns.

5. Avoid sources and causes of possible ulceration, such as exposing your feet to hot objects or walking barefoot. Avoid application of topical ointments to intertriginous areas.

6. Have your physician examine your feet annually for skin breaks, delayed capillary refilling, protective sensation and bony deformities.

Resources

• Diabetic neuropathy information on eMedicine

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