Thursday, November 10, 2011

How To Manage Neuropathy In The Hand?

396545384 I've got neuropathy in my left hand and I havent been to see my doc yet. Is this dangerous and what can I do to treat it? I was just diagnosed on Friday as having diabetes, so I dont know much about the disease as of yet and Im not on medecine or anything yet. Thank you!
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  1. rebesNovember 10, 2011 at 9:01 PM

    Gracinda - Diabetic neuropathy is more of a symptom of untreated diabetes than it is a disease itself.
    Is it dangerous? Well, yes and no.
    What it means is that the nerves in your hand (and probably your feet, too) have started to die off because of the effects of unchecked high blood sugars. When cells don't have nerves supplying them, they too, start to die off, and don't behave normally. Particularly blood vessels. That's why people with diabetes are at *very high risk* of diabetic ulcers in their feet; their blood vessels just don't react normally any more, and don't properly supply the cells of the feet and toes.
    SO: what to do.
    Once there is damage, it really can't be reversed. You can work hard to prevent further damage, though. Evidence of further damage would be complete loss of sensation in your hands, and progressing up your arms. Same goes for your legs.
    The biggest thing to know is that you are very high risk for nicks and cuts that you may not even notice. That's because your skin won't heal as well (see above: cells not behaving properly). Do DAILY inspections of your feet and hands. I'm quite serious. If you notice a sore or cut, report it immediately to your doctor; don't try and treat it on your own.
    Diabetes is a whole life changer. Learn all you can, and your life will be a whole lot better.
    I wish you well.

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  2. rebesNovember 10, 2011 at 9:01 PM

    tod m - avoid sugar, especially soda, fruit juice and high carbohydrate meals. all carbs turn into sugar.
    eat small meals regularly.

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  3. rebesNovember 10, 2011 at 9:01 PM

    Mr. Peachy® - Managing your blood sugar and preventing further damage is number one. Healing the damage is number two. Watch this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3rvItKihAw

    Email me if you have any questions.

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