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How to cope with diabetic polyneuropathy?

10 stycznia 2025
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For several decades, diabetic neuropathy has been one of the most common complications of diabetes. It affects the nervous system of the affected individual. Symptoms include tingling, pain, muscle weakness, and sensory disturbances, which significantly reduce the quality of life of many patients. Usually, this disease develops gradually, initially affecting the lower limbs. Untreated diabetic neuropathy can lead to serious consequences, such as loss of sensation in the feet.

It is important to remember that the causes of diabetic neuropathy are complex and largely due to the long-term elevated blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. This condition, known as hyperglycemia, gradually damages blood vessels and nerve fibers, leading to their hypoxia and dysfunction. Although currently a complete cure for diabetic neuropathy is difficult, its symptoms can be significantly alleviated.
The first step in managing diabetic neuropathy is, of course, regular, consistent, and effective monitoring of blood glucose levels using glucometers or sensors. Regular sugar monitoring allows for diabetes control by maintaining its levels at the recommended range. This contributes to slowing the progression of the disease and alleviating its symptoms. Stabilizing glucose levels reduces the risk of nerve damage in the future.

A healthy diet based on a low glycemic index plays a crucial role here. For people with diabetes, regular and balanced meals are important to avoid sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. The diet should be rich in vegetables, protein, and whole grain products that help maintain stability. It is also advisable to limit the intake of trans fats and simple sugars, which can negatively affect metabolism.

One must not forget about physical activity that suits individual preferences. Regular exercises, as well as walking, swimming, or yoga, improve insulin sensitivity and support proper blood circulation. However, exercises should be adjusted to individual capabilities to avoid overloading the body.
Currently, pharmacotherapy plays a major role in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. Doctors often use gabapentin or pregabalin to reduce neuropathic pain. These medications not only alleviate pain but also improve sleep quality, aiding in the body's regeneration. Various dietary supplements are also used.

It is worth considering supplementation with B-group vitamins, especially B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin), which support the regeneration of the nervous system in a natural way. Medications containing alpha-lipoic acid, a potent antioxidant, are often recommended as well. It contributes to the reduction of oxidative stress in nerve cells, protecting them from damage.

Patients are also advised to use topical treatments, including lidocaine creams. This can provide invaluable pain relief, improving quality of life. However, like other treatments for neuropathy, they should be used under the supervision of a doctor, as this is a serious disease requiring regular neurological consultations.
Changing lifestyle is one of the most important elements in managing diabetic neuropathy. It is necessary to give up smoking cigarettes and consuming alcohol, as these substances can exacerbate the symptoms of the disease. Avoiding them is a milestone in improving health. Nicotine and alcohol negatively affect blood circulation, which further deteriorates the condition of the nerves.

Proper foot care is equally important, as neuropathy often leads to a loss of sensation in this part of the body. Thus, regularly inspecting feet and moisturizing the skin, and sometimes using appropriate footwear, are helpful. Such footwear effectively prevents the formation of wounds that could develop into hard-to-heal ulcers. It is also worthwhile to avoid walking barefoot to reduce the risk of injuries.

However, the key to body regeneration is healthy sleep. Appropriate products, such as the Osaka Air mattress, actively support healthy sleep. It provides proper spinal support and comfort. Its design aids proper blood flow, thus reducing pressure points, which is fundamental in diabetic neuropathy.
Diabetic neuropathy is a serious condition that requires a comprehensive approach. It involves diet, physical activity, and pharmacotherapy, but also monitoring blood sugar levels. These are key elements in managing the disease. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including avoiding substances and proper foot care, significantly improves the quality of life for patients.

The role of sleep in body regeneration should not be overlooked either. It is worth considering the Osaka Air mattress, which is an excellent choice for people struggling with diabetic neuropathy at various stages. By placing the popular memory foam in the second layer, not the top, it contours the body without engulfing. The use of HR foam in the top layer provides proper support. Our mattress design supports proper blood flow and not only. Its dynamic construction benefits spinal health, minimizing health issues.

We also encourage you to explore other articles on the best sleep and health blog, as well as the Encyclopedia of Healthy Sleep prepared by the ONSEN® team of specialists. For those who care about spine health, we recommend a set of spine exercises prepared by our physiotherapist.

FAQ: Diabetic polyneuropathy

What are the dangers of untreated diabetic neuropathy?

Untreated diabetic neuropathy can lead to serious health consequences, including the loss of sensation, particularly in the feet. This, in turn, increases the risk of unnoticed injuries and the formation of hard-to-heal ulcers. It can also lead to foot deformities and an increased risk of amputation.

What are the symptoms of diabetic polyneuropathy?

Specific symptoms of diabetic polyneuropathy most commonly include tingling, pain, and muscle weakness. Sensory disturbances, mainly in the lower limbs, may also occur. There is also a possibility of neuropathic pain, which is often described as burning, stabbing, or resembling electric shock. There may also be non-specific symptoms, which are worth discussing with a doctor.

Can diabetic neuropathy be reversed?

In the early stages of diabetic neuropathy, it is possible to reverse the condition, but in most cases, the changes are irreversible. However, with strict monitoring and control of blood glucose levels and appropriate lifestyle changes, it is possible to significantly reduce symptoms. Potentially, some nerve damage can also be reversed.

What should you not eat if you have diabetic polyneuropathy?

Individuals suffering from diabetic polyneuropathy should definitely avoid alcohol and spicy meals, which can exacerbate symptoms. It is recommended to consume meals rich in B vitamins, which support nerve regeneration and maintain a healthy diet with a low glycemic index, avoiding trans fats and simple sugars.

What is the difference between neuropathy and polyneuropathy?

Neuropathy is a general term referring to any nerve disorders that can occur due to various health conditions. It primarily occurs with diabetes, infections, physical injuries, or immunological disorders. Polyneuropathy, also known as multifocal neuropathy, is a more severe type of neuropathy where multiple peripheral nerves are damaged simultaneously. This often occurs in different parts of the body, typical for diabetic complications.

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