Question 1

can you get diabetic nerve problems without having symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Have you had: Diabetes since childhood? Takes a while to develop.  Emg/ncs can detect nerve damage before a patient becomes aware of them.

Question 2

what kind of condition is diabetic nerve problems (neuropathy)?

Accepted Answer

Foot ulcers etc.: Diabetic neuropathy (nerve disease), and may eventually lead to foot ulcers and amputation of lower limbs.

Question 3

how can diabetic neuropathy be distinguished from b12 deficiency nerve damage?

Accepted Answer

Mainly Clinical: Your question is a good one as recent reports suggest that about 20% occur together.

A few hints to the difference- if you have anosmia (loss of smell), hyperactive reflexes, large greater than small fiber sensory loss, and/or cognitive changes then suspect B12 deficiency.

If you have an asymmetric neuropathy, small fiber changes, and/or autonomic dysfunction(bp, sweat...) then think diabetes.

Question 4

how common is diabetic neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

Very: With the increase in the number of diabetics neuropathy will continue to rise..

Question 5

how to get relief for diabetic neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

Neuropathy Relief: That's a good question.  Do you mean relief from the condition, or relief from the symptoms?

It is said that getting the blood sugar back to normal can eventually help the nerves heal.  That is a worthy goal, and unfortunately difficult.  Comments are appreciated.

Symptomatic relief often occurs with medicine, either topical or oral.  Gabapentin is a popular option, amitriptyline, etc.

Question 6

what's a good thing to take for diabetic neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

Many things: There are many medications to take for neuropathy.  It would be best to consult your doctor.

Question 7

what is the definition or description of: diabetic neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

Very common: Diabetes is the commonest cause of peripheral neuropathy in the USA.  Common is numbness, tingling, weakness, burning on both sides, but can present unilaterally with a painful amyotrophy.  Very common is just the sensory problem when small fibers are mainly involved.  Responds to excellent control of blood glucose levels, but might also benefit from methylated B vitamins.

Question 8

do you think i should be concerned about diabetic neuropathy in my metatarsals?

Accepted Answer

Be concerned!: There is a lot of weight being transferred to the bottom of the foot at the metatarsal heads.  With neuropathy, you may not know that there is a weight-bearing injury to the tissues.  These can lead to ulceration and numerous other potential problems.  Find a good diabetic specialist and a podiatrist because they will be your friends for a long time.

Question 9

are there treatment guidelines for diabetic neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Every year the americal diabetes association publishes clinical practice guidelines.  The guidelines  should be available by contacting them.  You could also try google.

Question 10

what is the best pain management for diabetic neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

See details: You start with rigid control of your diabetes. Meds such as Gabapentin or Lyrica (pregabalin) can help. Pryidoxine may also help (vitamin b6).

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Doctor answers about:

Diabetic nerve problems in children

A member asked:

Can you get diabetic nerve problems without having symptoms?

A member asked:

What kind of condition is diabetic nerve problems (neuropathy)?

A member asked:

How can diabetic neuropathy be distinguished from b12 deficiency nerve damage?

A member asked:

How common is diabetic neuropathy?

A member asked:

How to get relief for diabetic neuropathy?

A member asked:

What's a good thing to take for diabetic neuropathy?

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: diabetic neuropathy?

A member asked:

Do you think i should be concerned about diabetic neuropathy in my metatarsals?

A member asked:

Are there treatment guidelines for diabetic neuropathy?

A member asked:

What is the best pain management for diabetic neuropathy?

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