If you’re one of the 26 million Americans living with diabetes, then you’re probably familiar with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), which is nerve damage that’s caused by chronic high blood sugar. DPN tends to be the most common complication of diabetes. Some of its symptoms include a tingling or burning sensation, difficulty walking, and numbness, especially in your feet and toes. If left untreated, DPN can eventually lead to amputation.
While DPN seems to be a growing problem within the African-American community, here are four ways to keep your DPN under control.
Ever notice how “don’t smoke” is always somewhere on these types of lists? Well, there’s a good reason for it. When you smoke, your arteries narrow and harden, reducing the amount of blood flow to your legs and feet, which makes it more difficult for wounds to heal.
2. Keep your blood sugar levels in check.
If you’re a diabetic, then you already know how important it is to monitor your blood sugar levels. When you have DPN, inconsistent blood sugar levels put you at risk for nerve damage, which can ultimately lead to amputation.
4 Simple Ways To Manage Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) was originally published on blackdoctor.org
