Relieving Your Nerve Pain

ByJulia L HanfJulia L Hanf

Nerve pain associated with diabetes typically occurs when blood sugar levels remain elevated over an extended period of time and does damage to the nerves and small blood vessels. This damage typically occurs 10-20 after a diagnosis of diabetes however since so many people are walking around not even knowing they have the disease the prognosis can come earlier than that. Typical pain associated with this type of damage includes a deep pain, weakness, numbness, burning, and tingling mainly in the legs and feet.
If you are experiencing nerve pain relief can be found through a variety of avenues, depending on the severity of the pain and your physician's preferences. First and foremost your physician will want to tackle the underlying problem of the nerve pain, namely your blood glucose levels. He or she will do this through a strict diet and exercise regime. Once your blood glucose levels are under control you should regain feeling in as few as a few weeks. However, in the meantime you may need additional help in relieving the pain.
Healthcare providers typically prescribe oral medications to relieve pain including anti-depressants such as Cymbalta and Wellbutrin, pain relievers such as Vicodin or Percocet, or anticonvulsants such as Lyrica. You may be surprised by the family of medicines I have mentioned however you don't need to be depressed for these medications to work at relieving pain. In many instances the antidepressants work better at relieving pain in the elderly than the traditional pain relievers. Most physicians will not recommend over the counter remedies since long term use can have serious side effects.
Topical creams and ointments can also be used. These creams are typically applied to the feet and include capsaicin cream and lidocaine patches. Also found to be helpful is a dietary supplement known as alpha-lipoic acid. Studies have found that ALA can help relieve symptoms and, in some cases, improve nerve function.
More forward thinking physicians may recommend acupuncture and physical therapy to relieve pain. There are acupuncturists who primarily deal with diabetic patients and if you are interested in this route ask your physician if he/she knows of any in your area. TENS units (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) have been found to help when applied to the areas that are giving you the most pain. TENS units deliver small electrical impulses that are designed to interfere with the pain signals you are receiving.
If you are suffering from nerve pain associated with your diabetes you are not alone. Nearly 50% of those diagnosed with this disease will, at some point, experience the same thing you are. Discuss with your physician which options are best however first and foremost, get your blood sugar levels under control.
Julia L Hanf is a proud contributing author and writes articles about Neuropathy and its complications. Neuropathy is not to be taken lightly, it is an awful condition that affects thousands of people every year. You can lower your risk of Neuropathy by keeping your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels close to the target numbers.



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