Neuropathy Treatment Tips

  1. Understanding Your Conditions
    • Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN):
      • What It Is: DPN is a type of nerve damage caused by diabetes. It usually affects the feet and legs but can also impact the hands and arms.
      • Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, burning pain, sensitivity to touch, and muscle weakness.
    • Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN):
        • What It Is: PHN is a nerve pain that persists after a shingles (herpes zoster) infection has healed.
        • Symptoms: Persistent burning, stabbing, or aching pain in the area where the shingles rash was, often accompanied by sensitivity to touch.

       

  2. Managing Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN)
    • Blood Sugar Control:
      • Goal: Keep blood glucose levels within target range as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
      • Tips: Monitor blood sugar regularly, follow a balanced diet, and adhere to your
        medication regimen.
    • Foot Care:
      • Routine: Inspect feet daily for cuts, blisters, or sores. Wash feet with mild soap and water, and dry thoroughly.
      • Footwear: Wear well-fitting, comfortable shoes to prevent injuries
    • Pain Management:
      • Medications: Your doctor might prescribe pain relievers or medications specifically for nerve pain, like gabapentin or pregabalin.
      • Topical Treatments: Consider topical creams or patches that can be applied directly to the skin for localized pain relief.
    • Lifestyle Changes:
        • Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, to improve circulation and reduce pain.
        • Quit Smoking: Smoking can worsen nerve damage and impede healing.

       

  3. Managing Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
    • Pain Relief:
      • Medications: Your doctor may recommend antivirals (if prescribed soon after shingles), pain relievers, or medications like tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsants.
      • Topical Treatments: Capsaicin cream or lidocaine patches can help reduce pain in affected areas. Qutenza patches can be applied at your nearest Sage Infusion Clinic.
    • Comfort Measures:
      • Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the affected area for temporary relief.
      • Avoid Irritants: Protect the skin from irritants such as tight clothing or hot water.
    • Alternative Therapies:
      • Acupuncture: Some patients find relief through acupuncture.
      • Therapeutic Massage: Gentle massage might help ease discomfort.
    • Preventing Future Episodes:
        • Vaccination: Consider getting the shingles vaccine to reduce the risk of developing shingles and PHN.

       

  4. General Tips for Both Conditions
    • Stress Management:
      • Relaxation Techniques: Practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help manage stress and pain.
    • Healthy Diet:
      • Balanced Nutrition: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support overall health and manage diabetes.
    • Regular Check-ups:
      • Routine Visits: Regularly see your healthcare provider to monitor your conditions and adjust treatments as necessary

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