5 Tips for Neuropathy Prevention
Are you living with diabetes and experiencing neuropathy symptoms like numbness or tingling in your hands and feet? It’s important to understand that neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk. Here are five of the most important things you can do to reduce your risks.
1. Reduce Unhealthy Habits
First and foremost, if you smoke or drink heavily, these habits put extra strain on your nerves and can worsen neuropathy symptoms. Quitting smoking and reducing how much you drink can have a big impact on neuropathy symptoms and can promote better overall health.
2. Improve Your Diet
Next, focus on making smart food choices by following a balanced diet and controlling blood sugar levels. As a person with diabetes, this is something that is most likely already on your radar. However, certain foods can affect your neuropathy risks. This includes staying away from processed foods high in unhealthy fats and added sugars.
Vitamins D and B12 are vital to prevent neuropathy as a person with diabetes. Some good food options include:
- Egg yolks
- Mushrooms
- Fatty fish
- Cereal
3. Lower Your Blood Pressure
Managing blood pressure is also crucial for neuropathy prevention in those with diabetes. High blood pressure puts stress on the nerves, so maintaining a healthy blood pressure can help prevent neuropathy. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to keep your blood pressure under control, whether through medication or lifestyle changes like exercise and stress management.
4. Stay Active
Regular physical activity improves nerve function, warding off symptoms of neuropathy. Consistent exercise also helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves circulation, both of which can prevent neuropathy.
5. Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations
Taking care of yourself and managing your diabetes can go a long way in preventing neuropathy. Following your treatment plan helps keep neuropathy at bay and manage other diabetes-related symptoms.
Additionally, The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends screening for diabetic neuropathy:
- After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
- Five years after diagnosis with type 1 diabetes.
- Once a year after initial screenings.
Get Started the Path to a Pain-Free Life with Neuropathy Treatment Clinics of Texas
Don’t let neuropathy hold you back from living your best life – take steps today to lower your risk. At Neuropathy Treatment Clinics of Texas, we are here to help you on your journey to a pain-free life. There is a life where you are pain-free, and we can help you get there! To learn more about our pain management services, give us a call at (972) 441-5634 or fill out our online form.
