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Central nervous system
Central nervous system
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Diabetic neuropathy

Alternative Names:
Nerve damage - diabetic

Treatment:

The goals of treating diabetic neuropathy are to prevent progression and reduce the symptoms of the disease. Tight control of glucose is important to prevent progression. To reduce the symptoms, topical treatment with Capsaicin or oral medication like amitriptyline, gabapentin, and carbamazepine have been used successfully. Analgesics (pain medications) are rarely of much benefit in the treatment of painful neuropathy.

Regular foot exams are important to identify small infections and prevent progression. If foot injuries go unnoticed for too long, amputation may be required.

Expectations (prognosis):

The mechanisms of diabetic neuropathy are poorly understood. At present, treatment alleviates pain and can control some associated symptoms, but the process is generally progressive.



Complications:

There is an increased risk of injury to the feet because of loss of sensation. Small infections can progress to ulceration (skin and soft tissue breakdown) and require amputation. In addition, motor nerve damage can lead to muscle breakdown and imbalance.



Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if signs and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy develop.



Review Date: 5/12/2002
Reviewed By: Stephanie Fish, M.D., Division of Endocrinology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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