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  • Diabetic Neuropathy
    Diabetic Neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur if you have diabetes. It can affect different parts of the body. This damage to nerves is called diabetic neuropathy. 
Submitted by PatientsEngage on 14 November 2015

There's a lot you can do to prevent or delay nerve damage. And, if you already have diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), these steps can prevent or delay further damage and may lessen your symptoms. 

The most important thing is to keep blood sugar levels under control:

Healthy planned diet, physical activity and medications, if prescribed, can help you reach your target range.

  • Use a blood glucose meter to check your daily levels.
  • Get an A1C test (a lab test) at least twice a year to find out your average blood glucose for the past 2 to 3 months. This will tell you whether your diabetes care plan needs changes.

Report symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. If you have problems, get treatment right away. Early treatment can help prevent more problems later on. For example, if you take care of a foot infection early, it can help prevent amputation. Read more in our Foot Ulcers section.

Be careful with exercising. Some physical activities are not safe for people with neuropathy. 

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    What is it Prolonged diabetes mellitus damages the nerves. This malfunction of the nerves is called diabetic neuropathy. It can affect different parts of the body. High blood sugar can injure nerve fibers throughout your body, but diabetic neuropathy most often damages nerves in your legs and feet.