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Diabetic Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Cost

Last Updated: Mar 09, 2023

What is diabetic neuropathy?

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It is a serious yet common medical condition that can affect people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is caused by prolonged exposure to elevated glucose levels, and this can damage the nerves. Its symptoms are varied, ranging from the discomfort of tingling and numbness to the more serious problems of muscle atrophy and weakness. In extreme cases, the grave and potentially life-threatening condition can even cause organ damage.

Diabetic neuropathy can be identified by looking at the affected nerves. It is mostly divided into four main categories or types: peripheral, autonomic, proximal, and focal. All of the types are defined in detail as follows:

Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type among these, affecting both sensory and motor nerves and causing pain, burning, tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness. In other words, this type of neuropathy affects the peripheral nerves, which are responsible for carrying signals between the brain and spinal cord and other parts of the body. This condition can cause a range of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet, legs, arms, and hands.

Symptoms may be mild to severe, and some people may experience more severe symptoms at night. Additionally, people who have diabetes may have poor circulation, which can make it difficult to heal wounds and increase the risk of infection. In severe cases, infection may necessitate amputation.

Autonomic neuropathy

Autonomic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage affecting the autonomic nervous system, which controls bodily functions over which an individual has no conscious control. Common symptoms of autonomic neuropathy include digestive issues (such as constipation, diarrhea, and gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach empties too slowly), sexual and bladder problems (such as erectile dysfunction or difficulty fully emptying the bladder), and cardiovascular issues.

Cardiovascular problems may include an abnormally fast heart rate and a drop in blood pressure when standing up or exerting oneself, all of which can make it difficult to identify the symptoms of a heart attack. Other signs or symptoms of autonomic neuropathy that can be similar to those of a heart attack may include profuse sweating, pain in the arm, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, shortness of breath, nausea, and lightheadedness.

Proximal neuropathy

Also known as diabetic amyotrophy, it is a rare form of neuropathy that is more commonly observed in adults over 50 who have type 2 diabetes and tends to affect men more frequently. It is characterized by the sudden onset of excruciating pain in the hips, buttocks, or thighs, followed by muscular weakness in the legs, making it virtually impossible to stand unaided.

It is generally a unilateral disorder, meaning it only affects one side of the body. In some cases, symptoms can worsen before they improve, and some may be left with lasting nerve damage, which can result in permanent muscle weakness or paralysis. Despite the fact that some people have been able to overcome their disorder within a few years without professional help, seeking medical attention is always the most advisable course of action.

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Focal neuropathy

  • Focal neuropathy, otherwise known as mononeuropathy, is a form of injury to the nerves that affects only one single nerve or a group of them. It often appears suddenly and can cause extreme pain. Most commonly, it affects the head, hands, torso, or legs.
  • In many cases, the symptoms of focal neuropathy will resolve within a few weeks or months and cause no permanent damage. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a frequent type of focal neuropathy resulting from the compression of the median nerve in the wrist. While many people do not experience any symptoms associated with this condition, 25% of those diagnosed with diabetes have some degree of compression of the nerves in their wrists.
  • In other words, focal neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that affects a specific area of the body, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the affected area. It can also cause double vision, aching behind the eyes, and Bell’s palsy. Commonly affected areas include the front of the thigh, pelvic region, lower back, stomach, chest, inside of the foot, and outside of the lower leg.
  • Common symptoms of focal neuropathy include pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers, as well as weakness in the big toe. Sometimes, the signs and symptoms of a condition may fluctuate, or they may remain persistent. Treatment of focal neuropathy depends on the underlying cause but may include medications to relieve pain and inflammation, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
  • Even though there is no definitive cure for diabetic neuropathy, it is possible to minimize the effects of the condition and prevent further complications through proper management and monitoring of one's blood sugar levels. One can achieve this through some lifestyle modifications, which may include eating a balanced diet, exercising on a regular basis, managing stress levels, and getting adequate rest.
  • Additionally, monitoring one's blood sugar levels and taking prescribed medications can also help in the successful management of diabetic neuropathy. These steps can not only help to alleviate symptoms but also improve the patient's overall quality of life.

Summary: Diabetic neuropathy is a form of nerve damage that comes about over time as a result of prolonged elevated blood sugar levels. Unfortunately, there is no cure for it, but controlling sugar levels can help slow down its progression and avert any further issues from occurring.

What causes diabetic neuropathy?

  • Diabetic neuropathy occurs when elevated glucose levels in the blood cause damage to the nerves. This can lead to a range of symptoms such as tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness in the arms and legs. These effects may be the result of long-term exposure to high levels of glucose, which damages the nerve fibers.
  • In addition to diabetes, there are other factors that can lead to nerve damage and the development of diabetic neuropathy. For instance, the deterioration of blood vessels due to high cholesterol levels can cause nerve damage. Mechanical injuries, like those from carpal tunnel syndrome, can also lead to such damage.
  • Also, lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol can have deleterious consequences on the nerves. Furthermore, having low levels of vitamin B12 has been linked to nerve damage; this especially happens to users of Metformin, a drug that is commonly used to manage diabetes and can result in a reduction of vitamin B12.
  • If you think you may be at risk of diabetic neuropathy, it is important to discuss this with your doctor or other medical professional without further ado. They can help you monitor your blood sugar levels and identify any other factors that can lead to nerve damage. They can also order a basic blood test to look for vitamin deficiencies.

Summary: Diabetics may suffer from neuropathy as a result of their chronically high blood sugar levels. This condition is predominantly caused by either type 1 or type 2 diabetes and leads to damage of the tiny blood vessels that nourish nerves with oxygen and vitamins. As a result, the nerves suffer from an inability to receive the nourishment they need.

What are the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy?

Neuropathy often develops slowly over time, and it is common for the initial form of nerve damage to affect the nerves in the feet. This can cause symptoms like tingling and sometimes painful 'pins and needles' sensations in the feet.

Other symptoms of diabetic neuropathy may vary based on the areas affected by the condition and can include:

  • Loss of the sense of touch
  • Sensitivity to touch
  • Numbness or pain in the feet or hands
  • Difficulty with coordination while walking
  • Burning sensation in one's feet (particularly at night)
  • Muscle wasting or weakness
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Nausea, vomiting, or indigestion
  • Bloating or fullness
  • Dizziness while standing up
  • Decreased or increased (excessive) sweating
  • Bladder-related issues such as incomplete (or unfinished) emptying of the bladder
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Inability to sense low blood sugar levels
  • Vision trouble such as double vision
  • Elevated heart rate

Summary: People with diabetes may experience neuropathy, which can cause tingling, pain, numbness, and weakness in different parts of the body. Other symptoms of the condition may include coordination and balance problems, increased sensitivity to touch, and trouble controlling the bladder or bowels. In cases that are more severe, people may also experience breathing issues, indigestion or vomiting, and changes in heart rate.

What are the risk factors for diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a condition caused by damage to the nerves due to diabetes. Risk factors for developing this condition include poor blood sugar control, a family history of diabetes and kidney disease, being overweight, and smoking.

Poor blood sugar control is the most significant risk factor, as it can lead to increased damage to the nerves. A long history of diabetes can also increase the risk of developing diabetic neuropathy, especially if blood sugar is not kept in check.

Apart from that, kidney disease can also lead to the buildup of toxins in the blood, which can damage the nerves. Being overweight is another factor that may increase the risk of developing diabetic neuropathy, as can smoking, which can reduce blood flow to the legs and feet and make it difficult to heal any wounds.

Summary: The main risk factors for diabetic neuropathy include prolonged elevated blood glucose levels, poor control of diabetes, kidney disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Other factors such as smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity can also increase the risk of developing diabetic neuropathy.

How can you prevent diabetic neuropathy?

  • To help prevent this condition, it is important to manage your blood glucose levels carefully. This can be done by monitoring your blood glucose levels consistently, taking medications as prescribed, managing your diet, and being active.
  • It is also important to work closely with your doctor and follow their recommendations for slowing the progression of neuropathy. By doing so, a person can reduce the amount of damage to their nerves and avoid complications. Apart from that, you can lower your risk of developing diabetic neuropathy by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and controlling your blood sugar levels through regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Summary: Diabetic neuropathy can be prevented by closely monitoring and controlling blood sugar levels, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, not smoking, and taking medications as prescribed by a doctor. Monitoring blood sugar levels closely is also imperative to prevent long-term damage to the nerves.

Do

  • Maintain good control of blood sugar levels: To reduce your risk of diabetic neuropathy, it is important to keep your blood sugar levels within the normal range. You can do this by following your diet and exercise plan and taking your medications as prescribed.
  • Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can improve circulation and reduce nerve pain. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that is right for you.
  • Get regular check-ups: Regular visits to your doctor can help ensure that any changes in your condition are caught and treated early.
  • Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced or wholesome diet with plenty of fresh fruits and green vegetables can help control your blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of diabetic neuropathy.

Don’t

  • Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can worsen nerve damage and increase the risk of neuropathy in people with diabetes. Talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional about whether it is safe for you to drink alcohol.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking is known to worsen the effects of diabetic neuropathy. If you are a smoker, you must talk to your doctor and ask them about the best ways to quit.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to heat and cold: Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can exacerbate diabetic neuropathy symptoms.
  • Don’t stay dehydrated: Dehydration can possibly worsen the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, so it is important to stay hydrated. Try drinking plenty of water throughout the day in order to avoid dehydration.

Diabetic neuropathy: diagnosis and tests

  • Diabetic neuropathy is a condition caused by nerve damage that occurs due to diabetes. It is a common complication of diabetes, affecting roughly 60–70% of people with the disease. Diagnosing diabetic neuropathy can be difficult, as the symptoms can vary greatly among individuals and be similar to those of other diseases. However, there are several tests that a doctor or other healthcare professional may perform in order to determine if a person is suffering from diabetic neuropathy.
  • The first step in diagnosing diabetic neuropathy is for a doctor to ask about the individual's symptoms and medical history. The doctor may perform a physical examination with the aim of assessing sensitivity to temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle tone.
  • Additionally, a filament test may be employed, where a nylon fiber is used to determine any loss of sensation in the feet. Apart from that, a tuning fork test may be carried out so that your doctor can assess your vibration threshold. Lastly, the doctor may also test the ankle reflexes.

Summary: Diabetic neuropathy is typically diagnosed through a physical exam, along with nerve conduction tests and electromyography to measure electrical activity in muscles. Also, blood tests are often used to detect signs of underlying diabetes.

What are the possible complications of diabetic neuropathy?

  • Diabetic neuropathy can lead to a variety of complications, including digestive issues, sexual dysfunction, infection in the legs and feet, joint damage in the legs, excess or reduced sweating, urinary problems, and cardiovascular issues. Digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, impaired hunger, constipation, and diarrhea can occur.
  • Sexual dysfunction can occur in both males and females, leading to erectile dysfunction in males, issues with sexual arousal and vaginal lubrication in females, and impaired stimulation in both sexes. Infection in the legs and feet can occur due to the loss of sensation, leading to the potential for ulcers and even the loss of toes or feet.
  • Joint damage in the legs can occur, leading to swelling, numbness, and a lack of stability in the joints. Excessive or reduced sweating can occur due to damage to the sweat glands, leading to anhidrosis or hypohidrosis.
  • Urinary problems such as the inability to recognize a full bladder and poor control of urination can occur due to nerve damage. Cardiovascular issues such as arrhythmia, tachycardia, and low blood pressure can occur due to autonomic neuropathy, leading to dizziness, fainting, or even shock.

Summary: Possible complications of diabetic neuropathy include nerve damage, pain, numbness, and an increased risk of infection due to reduced sensation. In more serious cases, diabetic neuropathy can lead to heart disease, organ damage, and even death.

Home remedies for diabetic neuropathy

A serious condition such as diabetic neuropathy can be hard to manage. But luckily, there are some natural ways that are known to reduce the miserable symptoms of the condition.

Having said that, before trying any of the following, it is important to speak with your doctor to ensure that they are right for you. Here are a few possible home remedies to help manage diabetic neuropathy:

  • Exercise regularly: Regular exercise helps to improve nerve function, reduce blood glucose levels, and improve blood circulation. Aim for at least half an hour of aerobic exercise, such as cycling, walking, or swimming, at least three times a week.
  • Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet that is low in sugar and refined carbohydrates can help reduce blood glucose levels and improve nerve function. Increase your intake of foods that are high in healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, and olive oil, and add plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet.
  • Take necessary supplements: Certain supplements, such as B vitamins, alpha-lipoic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids, may help to reduce nerve pain and improve nerve function.
  • Massage: Massage can improve circulation and reduce nerve pain.
  • Acupuncture: Acupuncture has been found to reduce pain as well as improve nerve function in individuals suffering from diabetic neuropathy.
  • Hot and cold therapy: Hot or cold compresses, when applied to the affected area, can help alleviate pain and make the patient feel better.
  • Practice good foot care: Taking care of your feet is important for people with diabetic neuropathy. Wear comfortable shoes and socks; check your feet daily for any cuts or sores; and keep them clean and dry.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking can worsen diabetic neuropathy, so it is important to quit smoking if you have this condition.

Summary: Diabetic neuropathy can be managed naturally with regular exercise, a healthy diet, massage, acupuncture, hot or cold therapy, certain supplements, good foot care, and quitting smoking. That said, it is always important to consult with a medical professional before attempting any of the aforementioned remedies.

What to eat in diabetic neuropathy?

Eating a nutritious, balanced diet is essential for those with diabetic neuropathy. Simple carbohydrates should be replaced with foods high in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated ones. Legumes, whole grains, vegetables, fresh fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats, such as olive oil and nuts, should be staples in the regular diet. Here are some of the best foods for people with diabetic neuropathy:

  • Vegetables and fruits: Always choose fresh or properly frozen produce. Non-starchy vegetables like spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens, as well as colorful fruits like apples, oranges, and berries, are all excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  • Whole grains: One can go for whole-grain cereals, breads, and even pastas. It goes without saying that whole grains are deemed one of the greatest natural sources of fiber. To that end, they can be really helpful in keeping one’s blood sugar levels under control or stable.
  • Lean proteins: Try opting for lean sources of protein such as white-meat poultry, fish, non-fat dairy, eggs, and tofu.
  • Healthy fats: Try consuming foods more often that contain healthy fats, such as seeds, avocados, nuts, and olive oil.
  • Herbs and spices: Add flavor to your food and dishes with herbs and spices in place of salt to reduce your sodium intake.

Apart from all that, it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day and to avoid processed and sugary foods. Also, be sure that you talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine the best food choices for you before trying any of the items mentioned above.

Summary: If you have diabetic neuropathy, it is important to eat a balanced diet that is low in simple carbohydrates and high in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Include foods like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and herbs and spices to support a healthy lifestyle.

What not to eat in diabetic neuropathy?

People living with diabetic neuropathy should pay special attention to their blood sugar levels in order to minimize the risk of further complications. To keep your blood sugar levels stable, it is recommended that you avoid sugary and processed foods.

Foods that are high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium should also be avoided as they can increase your risk of developing further complications.

Especially, avoid these foods:

  • Highly processed foods that may include pastries, white bread, or pasta
  • Sugary drinks, which may include soda, fruit juice, and sports drinks
  • Highly processed meats, including bacon, hot dogs, and sausage
  • Full-fat dairy products such as whole milk, cheese, and ice cream
  • Fried foods such as French fries, doughnuts, and potato chips
  • Candy, cakes, cookies, and other sweets
  • Refined grains such as white rice, white bread, and white pasta
  • Alcohol, especially beer and wine

Summary: People with diabetic neuropathy should avoid foods that are high in sugar, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, such as processed foods, sugary drinks, processed meats, full-fat dairy products, fried foods, sweets, refined grains, and alcohol.

Diabetic neuropathy treatments

When treating diabetic neuropathy, a combination of medications, glucose management, and off-label drug use can be beneficial. Popular medications used to treat this condition include:

That said, the importance of controlling glucose levels cannot be overstated, as it can help reduce symptoms and slow neuropathy progression. In some cases, off-label drug use may also be considered, which is when a drug is approved for one purpose but is being used for another. On the whole, a combination of medication and glucose management, as well as consideration of off-label drug use when necessary, can be the most effective treatments for diabetic neuropathy.

Summary: Diabetic neuropathy can effectively be treated with a combination of medications (e.g. venlafaxine, duloxetine, gabapentin, pregabalin, amitriptyline, capsaicin) and glucose management; in some cases, off-label drug use may be necessary. Controlling glucose levels is also key to reducing symptoms and slowing neuropathy progression.

Which doctor should you consult for diabetic neuropathy?

To diagnose and treat diabetic neuropathy, it is important to seek care from a qualified and experienced medical professional. The best doctor to consult for diabetic neuropathy is an endocrinologist, a specialist in treating hormone-related conditions such as diabetes.

An endocrinologist can help diagnose diabetic neuropathy and provide treatment for it, such as medication, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy. Apart from an endocrinologist, a neurologist, who is a specialist in treating conditions involving the nervous system, can also be consulted for further evaluation and management of the condition.

Which are the best medicines for diabetic neuropathy?

As mentioned above, this condition is a common complication associated with diabetes and is caused by damage to the nerves, mainly because of high blood sugar levels. The treatment of diabetic neuropathy generally involves a combination of lifestyle changes and necessary medications.

The best medicines for diabetic neuropathy may depend on the underlying cause as well as the severity of the symptoms in every individual case. Some commonly prescribed medications include:

  • Pain killers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and opioids such as codeine
  • Antidepressants: Antidepressants such as amitriptyline and duloxetine can alleviate pain and improve mood
  • Anticonvulsants: Anticonvulsants such as pregabalin and gabapentin can help reduce nerve pain and improve sleep
  • Topical medications: Topical medications (that may include capsaicin and lidocaine) can help relieve pain
  • Anti-diabetic medications: Some anti-diabetic medications, such as metformin and glipizide, can help control blood sugar and reduce nerve pain
  • Additionally, other lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising regularly, can help reduce the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. One should also keep in mind that it is absolutely important to consult with a doctor or healthcare provider before taking any medications for diabetic neuropathy, as some medications may not be suitable for all individuals.

How many types of diabetic neuropathy vaccines are there?

Currently, there is no vaccine available to specifically treat or prevent diabetic neuropathy. However, research is in progress to create medications and treatments to minimize the risk of contracting this disorder and impede its progression.

How long does it take to recover from diabetic neuropathy?

  • The length of recovery time for diabetic neuropathy depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of the damage, the person’s overall health, and whether or not the person has access to proper medical care.
  • In most cases, people with diabetic neuropathy can expect a full recovery with proper treatment and lifestyle changes.
  • In mild cases, recovery may take a few weeks to a few months, while more severe cases may take up to a year or more for symptoms to fully resolve. Treatment for diabetic neuropathy typically includes medications to reduce inflammation and improve nerve function, along with lifestyle modifications such as avoiding alcohol, controlling blood sugar levels, and maintaining a healthy diet. Physical therapy and/or occupational therapy may also be prescribed to help with pain management and mobility issues.
  • It is important to note that while recovery times vary, the longer a person’s symptoms are left untreated, the longer the recovery time may be. Therefore, one must visit a doctor as soon as they notice any symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.

Are the results of the treatment permanent?

The results of diabetic neuropathy treatment vary from person to person and depend on the severity of the condition and symptoms. In most cases, the effects of treatment can be seen within a few weeks; however, the results may not be permanent.

Diabetic neuropathy is one of the common complications associated with diabetes, caused by long-term high blood sugar levels. Over time, these high levels of sugar can damage the nerves, resulting in numbness, pain, or tingling in the hands and feet. Treatment may involve medications, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy and can help reduce symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Although treatment can help improve the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, it is not a cure, and the effects of the treatment may not be permanent. There may be some cases in which symptoms return or worsen over time. All in all, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions for treatment and to continue to monitor blood sugar levels and make lifestyle changes to help manage diabetes.

Who is eligible for the treatment?

In order to be eligible for treatment of diabetic neuropathy, an individual must have a confirmed diagnosis of diabetes as well as symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. The individual must also be aware of the treatment's benefits and risks, as well as any potential side effects associated with it.

Additionally, the individual must have the financial means to pay for treatment, as it is not typically covered by insurance. In some cases, it may be necessary to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option.

Who is not eligible for the treatment?

In general, the diabetic neuropathy treatment is not recommended for individuals with the conditions listed below:

  • Severe renal impairment
  • Severe hepatic impairment
  • Allergy to any of the components of the drug
  • Myasthenia gravis
  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding

In addition, patients with a history of peripheral neuropathy or neuropathic pain should not be prescribed this treatment due to the risk of exacerbating the symptoms. Patients or individuals who are on certain medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, should also be cautious when considering this treatment.

What are the post-treatment guidelines?

After recovering from diabetic neuropathy, it is recommended to follow some basic post-treatment guidelines, such as:

  • Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: After treatment for diabetic neuropathy, it is important to monitor your blood sugar levels closely and keep them within the range of normal. This is something indispensable if you want to prevent further damage to the nerves and help keep the neuropathy under control.
  • Exercise: Exercise can improve circulation and reduce stress. Strengthening and stretching exercises are beneficial for diabetic neuropathy, but it is important to speak with your doctor before starting any exercise regimen.
  • Diet: Eating a healthy diet on a daily basis can help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications. A healthy diet may include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and some healthy fats or lean proteins. Avoiding processed and sugary foods is also important to help keep your blood sugar stable.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking can aggravate diabetic neuropathy by decreasing blood flow and increasing cell damage. On the other hand, stopping to smoke can help you better manage your neuropathy symptoms.
  • Manage Stress: Stress can worsen neuropathy symptoms, so managing stress is important to help keep neuropathy under control. This includes developing healthy coping strategies such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga.
  • Manage Pain: Pain management is important in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain, but it is important to speak with your doctor before taking any medications. Your doctor may also suggest other alternative treatments, which may include acupuncture or physical therapy.

What is the price of diabetic neuropathy treatments in India?

  • The cost of treatment for diabetic neuropathy in India may vary greatly based on the kind of treatment chosen as well as the condition's severity. Generally speaking, the cost of treatment for diabetic neuropathy in India can range anywhere from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 50,000, depending on the type of treatment and the duration of the course of treatment.
  • For mild cases of diabetic neuropathy, the most common treatments are lifestyle changes and medications. Lifestyle changes may include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management. Medications prescribed for diabetic neuropathy treatment can include anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and analgesics. These medications can range in cost from Rs. 500 to Rs. 3,000 per month, depending on the type and strength of the medication.
  • For more severe cases of diabetic neuropathy, more intensive treatments may be required. These can include physical therapy, nerve blocks, and even surgery. The cost of these treatments can vary widely, from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000. Physical therapy can range from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 20,000 per session, depending on the severity of the condition and the duration of the therapy.
  • Nerve blocks can cost between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 15,000, depending on the type of block and the number of blocks needed. Surgery can range from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000, depending on the type of surgery and the complexity of the procedure.
  • In addition to the cost of treatment, there are also other costs associated with diabetic neuropathy, such as regular diagnostic tests, medications, and other medical supplies. These costs can range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 5,000 per month, depending on the types and amounts of supplies needed.

Summary: The cost of treatments for diabetic neuropathy in India varies depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment. Generally, the cost of treatment is between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 50,000. Some treatments, such as nerve stimulation and surgery, may cost more.

What are the side effects of treatments for diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a condition where a person experiences nerve damage due to diabetes. Treatment for diabetic neuropathy can help reduce pain and other symptoms, but it can also cause side effects. Common side effects of diabetic neuropathy treatments include:

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Muscle twitching
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dry mouth

Summary: Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that can cause nerve damage due to diabetes, and treatments for it can have side effects such as nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, muscle twitching, sleep disturbances, constipation, loss of appetite, and dry mouth.

Diabetic Neuropathy: Outlook / Prognosis

Diabetic neuropathy is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on the lives of those suffering from it. Exposure to prolonged high blood glucose levels can cause diabetic neuropathy, a condition in which the body suffers nerve damage. Symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy can be anything from the mild sensation of tingling and numbness to extreme pain and incapacity.

The treatment of this disorder can be predominantly based on the seriousness of the symptoms and the individual's requirements. Treatment options can range from lifestyle changes, such as exercise and diet, to medications and even surgery in severe cases. The cost of managing diabetic neuropathy is highly variable, based on the intensity of the illness and the treatment approach selected.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the long-term effects and complications of this condition. Therefore, it is important for those with diabetes to be aware of the potential risks and to work with their doctor to create a treatment plan that will help them manage their neuropathy and live a healthier life.

References

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Written ByDr. Goma Bali Bajaj Diploma in geriatric,MBBS,MEM,Diploma In GeriatricGeneral Physician
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Reviewed ByDr. Bhupindera Jaswant SinghMD - Consultant PhysicianGeneral Physician
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