Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment for Pain
To relieve pain, burning, tingling, or numbness, the doctor may suggest oral medications, such as:
- Aspirin
- Acetaminophen
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. (People with kidney disease should use NSAIDs only under a doctor's supervision.)
A topical cream called capsaicin is another option.
Codeine may be prescribed for a short time to relieve severe pain. Also, mexiletine -- used to regulate heartbeat -- has been effective in treating pain in several clinical trials.
Other
diabetic neuropathy treatment options for pain include transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS), which uses small amounts of electricity to block pain signals, as well as:
- Hypnosis
- Relaxation training
- Biofeedback
- Acupuncture.
Walking regularly or using elastic stockings may also help leg pain.
Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment for Gastrointestinal Problems
To relieve mild symptoms of
diabetic gastroparesis -- indigestion, belching, nausea, or vomiting --doctors suggest eating small, frequent meals; avoiding fats; and eating less fiber. When symptoms are severe, the doctor may prescribe erythromycin to speed digestion, metoclopramide to speed digestion and help relieve nausea, or other drugs to help regulate digestion or reduce stomach acid secretion.
To relieve
diarrhea or other bowel problems, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic, such as
tetracycline, or other medications as appropriate.
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