How to Manage Diabetic Neuropathy Complications in Vacaville

Diabetic neuropathy in Vacaville is a form of nerve damage that happens over time to people who have high blood sugar levels. This is a common, serious complication of diabetes. There is no doubt that diabetic neuropathy can be painful but it can also cause the development of other complications like problems with your heart, blood vessels, digestive system, and urinary tract.

Treatments for complications in Vacaville

In the case of the complications brought upon by diabetic neuropathy, there are specific treatments available for them. This includes the following:

• Digestive problems - Gastroparesis is a condition where the stomach empties its contents too slowly or none at all. This can be helped by eating smaller, more-frequent meals while reducing fat and fiber in the diet. Eating soups and pureed foods can also be helpful for many people. If you're experiencing constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, then it can be helped with medications, probiotics, and dietary changes.
• Urinary tract problems - Antispasmodic medications, behavioral techniques like timed urination and the use of devices such as pessaries can help treat loss of bladder control. There are also multiple therapies that can be combined to further manage this complication.
• Sexual dysfunction - Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn), tadalafil (Adcirca, Cialis), and sildenafil (Revatio, Viagra) can help improve men's sexual function, but they aren't safe or effective for everyone. Some men even turn to vacuum devices or penile implants if ever these medications don't work. Women can use vaginal lubricants to help manage this complication.
• Low blood pressure on standing (orthostatic hypotension) - This can be eased by changing your lifestyle such as standing up slowly, avoid drinking alcohol, and drinking plenty of water. Your doctor may even recommend the use of an abdominal binder, which is a compression support for your abdomen, and compression stockings. Orthostatic hypotension can also be treated with the use of several medications that are taken either alone or together.

These symptoms are mild for some people but having diabetic neuropathy can make it disabling, painful, and even fatal. It is best to talk to your doctor right away to find the best approach in managing your diabetic neuropathy complications.

Prevention

You can either delay or prevent diabetic neuropathy and its complications in the first place by closely monitoring your blood sugar levels and taking good care of your feet.

Blood sugar management - According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), people with diabetes should undergo an A1C test at least twice a year. This test shows your average blood sugar level for past 2 to 3 months.

A1C goals may require to be individualized, but for many adults, the ADA recommends a result of less than 7%. If you have blood sugar levels higher than your goal, you need to alter your daily management by adding or adjusting your medications and changing your diet.

Foot care - Foot problems are common complications of diabetic neuropathy. However, these problems can be prevented by doing a thorough foot exam at least once a year. Your doctor should check your feet on every visit and you must also do your part in taking care of it at home.

Follow the advice of your doctor on taking good care of your feet. As for your self-care, these are the things that you can do for your feet:

• Wear clean, dry socks - You should wear socks that are made of cotton or moisture-wicking fibers that don't have thick seams or tight bands.
• Moisturize your feet - This can help prevent cracking on your feet. However, avoid putting lotion between your toes so that it won't cause the growth of fungi in those areas.
• Check your feet daily - Always check your feet for any signs of blisters, bruises, cracks, cuts, peeling, redness, and swelling. You can use a mirror for this check or ask someone from your household to look at areas that are hard for you to see.
• Trim your toenails carefully - You should cut your toenails straight across. Don't forget to file the edges to avoid sharp edges.
• Keep your feet clean and dry - Wash your feet daily with mild soap and lukewarm water. Don't soak your feet and make sure to dry your feet and between your toes carefully.
• Wear cushioned shoes that fit properly - Make sure to wear slippers or shoes to provide protection to your feet. Your shoes should fit well and has enough room for your toes to move.