What Is Diabetic Neuropathy?
10. Patient Education
Patient education involves helping the patients to learn more about diet and nutrition as these are crucial to help prevent complications. A nutritionist can help the patients understand and develop a diet that helps lower blood glucose. Regular exercise is also important.
Individuals with decreased sensation in their extremities due to neuropathy should be educated regarding proper footwear and how to care for their feet. Foot care includes moisturizing, trimming of toenails, and seeking medical care if there is any bacterial or fungal infection. They may also need to pay special attention in extreme weather conditions. For example, those with neuropathy may not be aware of frostbite. Diabetic neuropathy is best prevented by maintaining near normal blood glucose since the start of diabetes. Even those with diabetic neuropathy may experience decreased pain if their blood glucose is controlled. Patients should be referred for eye and renal (kidney) care.
Advertisement
