If you have diabetes, this should be on your radar. Neuropathy (new-ROP-uh-thee) is a diabetes complication that causes nerve damage throughout your body. And if left untreated, has the potential to lead to infection and/or amputation of the affected area. 

About half of all people with diabetes have some form of nerve damage. It is more common in those who have had diabetes for many years and can lead to various health problems down the line, impacting your quality of life.

But don’t panic—neuropathy is not inevitable! Keeping your blood glucose (blood sugar) levels on target is your best line of defense against neuropathy. You can also manage neuropathy through a healthy diet and consistent exercise routine that fits your lifestyle. 

Steps to Prevent or Delay Nerve Damage

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.

Keep your blood sugar levels in your target range

Meal planning, physical activity and medications, if needed, all can help you reach your target range. There are two ways to keep track of your blood sugar levels:

• Use a blood glucose meter to help you make decisions about day-to-day care.
• Get an A1C test (a lab test) at least twice a year to find out your average blood sugar for the past 2 to 3 months.

Checking your blood sugar levels will tell you whether your diabetes care plan is working or whether changes are needed.

• 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.
• Take good care of your feet. Check your feet every day. If you no longer can feel pain in your feet, you might not notice a foot injury. Instead, use your eyes to look for problems. Use a mirror to see the bottoms of your feet. Use your hands to feel for hot or cold spots, bumps or dry skin. Look for sores, cuts or breaks in the skin. Also check for corns, calluses, blisters, red areas, swelling, ingrown toenails and toenail infections. If it’s hard for you to see or reach your feet, get help from a family member or foot doctor.
• Protect your feet. If your feet are dry, use a lotion on your skin but not between your toes. Wear shoes and socks that fit well and wear them all the time. Use warm water to wash your feet, and dry them carefully afterward.
• Get special shoes if needed. If you have foot problems, Medicare may pay for shoes. Ask your health care team about it.
• Be careful with exercising. Some physical activities are not safe for people with neuropathy. Talk with a diabetes clinical exercise expert who can guide you.