Glaucoma And Diabetes

There are many types of complications that come with diabetes, some are painful and some are life-threatening. However, Glaucoma is one that can be cured or at least it can be helped. Diabetes affects more then 16 million people in America. Some form of eye disease affects almost every diabetic patient, there are different types of eye diseases but the most common is Glaucoma. Glaucoma is caused by the damage that is severed to retina and the optic nerve in the eye. Those who have diabetes are already at risk, however the older you are the more you become at risk for Glaucoma. Those with diabetes are twice as likely to be diagnosed with Glaucoma then those who do not have diabetes.

Glaucoma And DiabetesGlaucoma And Diabetes: There are many types of complications that come with diabetes, some are painful and some are life-threatening. However, Glaucoma is one that can be cured or at least it can be helped. Diabetes affects more then 16 million people in America. Some form of eye disease affects almost every diabetic patient, there are different types of eye diseases but the most common is Glaucoma. Glaucoma is caused by the damage that is severed to retina and the optic nerve in the eye. Those who have diabetes are already at risk, however the older you are the more you become at risk for Glaucoma. Those with diabetes are twice as likely to be diagnosed with Glaucoma then those who do not have diabetes.

Other diabetic eye diseases are called Cataracts and Retinopathy these are less common but are still diagnosed with diabetic patients. When being diagnosed with Glaucoma you will hear of the 3 different types of Glaucoma types. Open-angle Glaucoma is the most common of all 3 types of glaucoma known about. Open-angle Glaucoma happens very slowly and some patients do not even realize that they have it damage happens so slowly that it may not be noticed for many years.

The second type of Glaucoma is called Closed-angle and it only affects just one eye and can present an increase in pressure throughout the eye. Closed-angle can cause a huge amount of pain, nausea, some visual effects have been noticed and some people have complained about seeing halo’s around certain lights.

The last type of Glaucoma is called Neovascular Glaucoma and is considered the rarest type of Glaucoma types because it does not always come with sudden vision loss. Neovascular occurs when blood vessels are starting to grow on the iris itself, which is the colored part of the eyes. Once this happens fluid starts to be cut off, which then raises a huge amount of pressure in the eyes. This has become one of the hardest diseases to treat; however, laser surgery has become quite popular. Laser surgery reduces the abnormal growing vessels found on the iris. Some people however have opted for drainage implants.

Drainage implants are also referred to as Valve implants, some other treatments are given by certain medical prescriptions. However, Valve treatments have taken on several different names; some refer to them as “aqueous shunts” while others refer to them as “Glaucoma drainage devices.” These implants work by allow fluid to drain from the eye or eyes so that way there will be no pressure build up. A device is placed near the eyes so that way the tube which is placed for drainage will not close up or shut down while trying to relieve pressure from the eye. Implant of today’s technology present a tubal form that helps the aqueous fluids.

To more understand what aqueous means, we have to look further into the eye. There are two segments to the eye itself which are filled with fluids called aqueous and vitreous humors. The aqueous is always being refreshed and the old fluid is constantly being washed away. When you are diagnosed with Glaucoma then you might start to notice some built-up pressure forming in your eye. This is cause by the aqueous fluid not being able to drain properly which will in turn cause some vision problems and some pain from your eye. A procedure defined as Tonometry can help doctors and Ophthalmologists measure this pressure which is referred to as intraocular pressure.

The valve implants we first developed in 1966 starting with Molteno. Two basic types were designed valved and non-valved; the valved designs are called Ahmed and Krupin while the non-value designs are called Molteno and Baerveldt. Thousands of implants have been used yearly to help patients to feel less pain. Some surgeries have been done to help those suffering from Neovascular glaucoma and nothing has been so successful more than the valve implants have.

Some herbal treatments are available for Glaucoma is available on the internet; one fore instance is called Dr. Christopher’s Bilberry Eye Formula. This is a blend of herbal ingredients that helps with the circulation to the eye and with the overall treatment of Glaucoma. It also helps to repair some of the damaged vessels caused by Glaucoma, help with loss of vision during the night and can cleanse tissues in the eyes while bring antioxidants to eyes. Bilberries, the main ingredient in this formula are a family member of blueberries. Another ingredient that comes in this formula is called anthocyanosides; this is the main ingredient that will help those who have lost eye-sight through-out the night be able to see again. Other ingredients consist of Bilberry leaves, eye-bright herb, cayenne pepper and ginkgo leaf. You can purchase a 100-count bottle for $18, but in looking through-out the web you can also find lower prices.

Another herbal treatment is on that has been heard of for a long time now; it has been controversial against for many years. Marijuana has been shown in many experimental researches to help to symptoms of Glaucoma. From a test in 1970, Marijuana proved a huge percentage of people who found relief of pressure from intraocular pressure in the diabetic patients who had glaucoma. Granted, this herbal drug can not be purchased, it can only be prescribed in medicinal amounts.

Oregano has been scientifically proven to help prevent glaucoma from happening especially if glaucoma is hereditary in your family. It is recommended by Naturopaths to find foods that contain Antioxidants that resist glaucoma. Wild oregano is one of these foods; it actually contains far more antioxidants than most foods.

One more herbal treatment that you might want to try is called Jaborandi; it comes from a tropical tree that grows in South America called jaborandi. Before the Spanish explorers arrived in South America, jaborandi was being used medicinally. Back in time around the mid- 1600’s some Spanish naturalists found the effects of jaborandi to have a tremendous affect on curing eye disease. It was actually an ingredient found in 1875 called pilopcarpine. Pilocarpine is usually formed into eye drops to help people with Glaucoma, using just one drop can take effect in 15 minutes and then will keep the eye protected for 24 hours.

Try some fruits and vegetables that contain vitamin C have also been effective in lowering intraocular pressure. Some examples include cabbage, bell pepper, Brussels sprouts, citrus fruits, kale, papaya, strawberries, broccoli and guava. Naturopaths and Nutritionists will recommend taking anywhere from 2,000 to 35,000 milligrams a day.

If you have Glaucoma then this is one herb that you will want to avoid, sanguinarine. Sanguinarine is found in bloodroot and may help to progress glaucoma. You could be using this herb daily and not even know about it since it is mostly found in toothpastes and mouthwashes because the herb can help to fight gum disease. You should check the label of both your tooth paste and mouthwash before buying them and using them.

To help prevent Glaucoma from ever happening you can do a number of things. First you will need to make sure you are getting regular eye exams. It is recommended by The National Eye Institute that you get your eyes dilated at least once a year if you have been diagnosed with diabetes.

Diabulimia

Diabulimia is an eating disorder that can occur in people that have Type 1 Diabetes. When the person does not give themselves their daily insulin, their body will go into a starvation mode, which over time will cause fat and muscle to breakdown. This will cause weight loss and can put the person in risk for a life-threatening condition known as Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA). If the condition goes untreated there is a high mortality rate.

diabulimiaDiabulimia is an eating disorder that can occur in people that have Type 1 Diabetes. When the person does not give themselves their daily insulin, their body will go into a starvation mode, which over time will cause fat and muscle to breakdown. This will cause weight loss and can put the person in risk for a life-threatening condition known as Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA). If the condition goes untreated there is a high mortality rate.

Once a person is diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, they are put on a restricted diet, and on a daily routine of taking insulin shots. Weight gain is a possible outcome, which some people, especially teens will feel ashamed and embarrassed about. They decide skipping an insulin injection will help them get back to their pre-Diabetes weight. Diabulimia is not the same as other eating disorders such as Anorexia because the person does not have to vomit or starve to loose weight.

Purging of sugar from the body through the kidneys is the same as someone who purges or vomits when suffering from Bulimia. Women with Type 1 Diabetes are twice as likely to develop an eating disorder. A reason that may be surprising is that since there is a lot of focus on what the person is eating such as the amount of carbohydrates and following a diet, they might start feeling negative about food.

Diabulimia is most commonly found in teenage girls and young women. Unfortunately this trend may be gaining popularity because it is being talked about over the internet by people with Diabetes and eating disorders. Out of 450,000 women studied that have Type 1 Diabetes, one-third has skipped insulin injections specifically to loose weight. By doing so, they are risking going into coma, or even death.

The damage done to the person’s body can be enormous. People who skip their insulin have higher blood sugar levels than normal. This can cause the person to become dehydrated, and fatigued along with the muscle loss. Long term affects can cause the persons Diabetes to rapidly attribute to Diabetic complications such as eye disease, kidney disease, and even limb amputations because of vascular disease. Other symptoms that can be expected due to long term Diabulimia include high cholesterol, extreme fatigue, and severe neuropathy which cause nerve damage to feet and hands.

Teenagers have a lot of pressure to fit a certain image. Just one flip through a magazine or watching a television show can make your child feel self-conscious. If you are a parent to a teenager who has Type 1 Diabetes there are warning signs to be aware of. Intentionally skipping or lowering insulin doses could be because they do not want to gain more weight. Excessive exercise and an obsessive concern about weight and body image are other symptoms of Diabulimia.

Eating disorders are serious medical conditions. Mixed with Diabetes it can cause long-term complications and even death. If you feel someone you love may be dealing with Diabulimia it is best to discuss your concerns with your Doctor.

Eye Stroke

Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (AION) is a serious disease that can happen in people that are middle aged through the golden years. This disease is also known as a stroke of the optic nerve. It can occur with little warning signs, and often spreads to both eyes. AION can be devastating diseases because it can leave the person with severe visual impairments.

eye strokeAnterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (AION) is a serious disease that can happen in people that are middle aged through the golden years. This disease is also known as a stroke of the optic nerve (eye stroke). It can occur with little warning signs, and often spreads to both eyes. AION can be devastating diseases because it can leave the person with severe visual impairments.

One of the forms of AION is known as Non Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAAION). This is the most common form of AION. People of all ages can get NAAION, with about 10% being under the age of 45. Male and females are equally at risk. NAAION occurs when there is an acute problem with circulation in which the arteries supply the optic nerve. This occurs when there is a dip in blood pressure, which results in there not being enough blood pressure to go through the vessels that supply the optic nerve.

This can happen by a number of reasons. Certain illnesses can make the risk of NAAION occurring greater. Diabetes Mellitus and Sleep Apnea are often seen in individuals who have had NAAION occur. It has been proved that when someone’s blood pressure drops while they sleep at night, they gain a greater risk of getting NAAION. More than seventy five percent of people who have NAAION had vision loss when they would wake up. This alone will not cause the disease, but when added with other risk factors it can attribute to the problem and be the cause of it progressing.

AION will vary by individuals. Someone could still have 20/20 vision, while others will suffer profound visual loss. This loss depends on the location and the amount of optic nerve that was affected by the eye stroke. After someone has AION, their contrast sensitivity is changed. They may not be able to see the changes when reading or judging depth.

At this time there are not many options when it comes to directly treating the optic nerve. It is common for Doctors to put the person on drugs that will lessen the intravacular pressure which can help protect the nerve. Baby aspirin may also help prevent AION from happening in the other eye. If the person smokes, that should be eliminated. Being diagnosed and treated will help lesson the vision problems associated with AION.

Usually people with AION will see improvement after a few weeks or months after the vision loss. Sometimes it will not get better, though. People learn to adapt to the change and it will eventually become less noticeable. There is a possibility after a few years of having AION occur in the other eye which was not affected at first.

It is important to routinely have your vision checked, especially if you are at risk by having Sleep Apnea and Diabetes Mellitus. Having early detection can prevent you from getting serious vision impairments. Your Doctor can help inform you on what you need to know about the disease and what steps to take in preventing it. Doing so will insure your eyes stay healthy and reliable for many years to come.

Sleep Apnea And Diabetes

Diabetes is unfortunately becoming a new trend. It is happening based on medical, social, and demographic forces. One of the causes of Diabetes is Sleep Apnea. It is now known as a major contributor of the disease. People who have Sleep Apnea stop breathing for 10 seconds or more on and off throughout the night. When this happens, it lowers the body’s oxygen blood levels and also disrupts sleep. People who suffer from Sleep Apnea are more likely to have Diabetes than those who do not have it. 50% of men who have Type 2 Diabetes suffer with Sleep Apnea.

Sleep Apnea And DiabetesSleep Apnea And Diabetes: Diabetes is unfortunately becoming a new trend. It is happening based on medical, social, and demographic forces. One of the causes of Diabetes is Sleep Apnea. It is now known as a major contributor of the disease. People who have Sleep Apnea stop breathing for 10 seconds or more on and off throughout the night. When this happens, it lowers the body’s oxygen blood levels and also disrupts sleep. People who suffer from Sleep Apnea are more likely to have Diabetes than those who do not have it. 50% of men who have Type 2 Diabetes suffer with Sleep Apnea.

There are a number of factors that are involved with both Sleep Apnea and Diabetes. Stress response is one factor. When someone repeatedly wakes up from sleep and has constant interruptions of the body receiving oxygen results into stress. This makes the heart beat faster. If this occurs often, it can lead to insulin resistance, among other problems. Cortisol, which is a stress hormone, can raise both glucose levels and insulin secretion. Excess body fat is another symptom of Sleep Apnea. A high amount of body mass index which is determined by the person’s height and weight is a contributing factor in both Sleep Apnea and Diabetes.

Sleep Apnea and Diabetes have been linked to a metabolic syndrome which is also known as Syndrome X. This metabolic syndrome is known as five medical conditions put together which can cause a fivefold increase in Diabetes. The five conditions are abdominal fat, high blood pressure, elevated fasting glucose levels, high triglycerides, and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or “good”) cholesterol. When put together, they are some of the leading factors from Sleep Apnea and Diabetes.

There are treatments available for people with Sleep Apnea and Type 2 Diabetes. CPAP which is known as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure is an option that also helps Diabetes which is a proving factor that Sleep Apnea does play a role in the way Type 2 Diabetes effects people. The device used for CPAP is a small mask that goes over the nose and sometimes the mouth. It is attached to a machine that releases a light air pressure in the throat which keeps the airway open. This is an excellent way to help sleeping patterns return to normal and also improve blood glucose levels.

Many doctors do not even know the association between Diabetes and Sleep Apnea. Screenings that can help someone who already has Diabetes determine if they have Sleep Apnea should be done routinely. There are a few questions to ask yourself which can give you a clue into if you have this problem. Do you snore? Do you have high blood pressure? Are you tired after a full nights sleep? If the answer is yes, you will need to address this issue with your healthcare provider. Having this taken care of can not only have you sleeping much better, it can lower your resistance of insulin. Next time you make an appointment, be sure to bring this topic up to see if you are one of the many people who suffer from Sleep Apnea.

Medical Complications Associated With Diabetes

Diabetes by itself can be quite a demanding illness however if it is left unchecked or is poorly managed then serious medical complications can arise. Unfortunately some of these complications make an appearance in patients who do in fact closely monitor their diabetes and who live their lives in such a way that they successfully cope with their condition.

Diabetes by itself can be quite a demanding illness however if it is left unchecked or is poorly managed then serious medical complications can arise. Unfortunately some of these complications make an appearance in patients who do in fact closely monitor their diabetes and who live their lives in such a way that they successfully cope with their condition.

Such medical complications include:

Eye conditions such as retinopathy and glaucoma. Over time the high blood glucose levels can damage the tiny blood vessels that carry blood to the retina, which may cause them to leak fluid (nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy). This can lead to the retina becoming swollen and the vision becoming increasingly blurred (diabetic macular edema). If left untreated new blood vessels can grow on the retina’s surface which can actually cause the retina to detach. Regular eye checks at the diabetic clinic can easily detect any problems that are developing with regards to the retina so that they can be prevented from getting any worse.

Numbness in the extremities i.e. the fingers and toes, that is commonly caused by peripheral nerve damage in severe diabetes (diabetic neuropathy). Because the toes and portions of the foot lose their feeling, foot ulcers can develop without the patient knowing, especially if they are more advanced in years. These foot ulcers can easily become infected and as the blood flow to the affected area is commonly impaired, they can be very difficult to heal without medical intervention. Unfortunately foot ulcers often become gangrenous and so need to be amputated for the good of the patient.

Heart and blood vessel disease (cardiovascular) which surprisingly is the leading cause of death for people who have been diagnosed with diabetes. Death can come as a result of heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Kidney failure or severe damage to the kidneys that results in impaired function (diabetic nephropathy). As with the eyes, the kidneys can become damaged over time because of the high blood glucose levels. This means that the waste products that the kidneys normally filter from the blood are allowed to accumulate which in turn can cause a wide range of secondary complications. Regular urine tests at the diabetes clinic can indicate any kidney problems early on so that they can be treated and monitored efficiently.

Dental disease or periodontal disease which occurs much more often in people with diabetes. Good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist can help with this complication.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis which is a very serious outcome of poorly controlled diabetes, especially those suffering from type I.

In order to prevent many of these complications it is important that diabetics go to the clinic for their regular check-ups and keep appointments with their doctor, even if they think the worrying symptom has gone away.

They must also be aware of the warning signs that could be pointing to potential complications such as fatigue, problems with vision, numbness or tingling sensations in their hands and especially their feet, chest pain, bad headaches that won’t pass, persistent infections and wounds that refuse to heal, and weight gain or weight loss (more than 20 pounds).

Defining Neuropathy And How It Relates To Diabetes

Diabetics have to endure various medical conditions in conjunction with their diabetes. One such condition which may occur in diabetics is neuropathy, or nerve damage as it is more commonly known. In fact, approximately 50% of diabetics will experience some type of neuropathy. The following will discuss the condition of neuropathy and how it pertains to diabetics.

Defining Neuropathy And How It Relates To DiabetesDefining Neuropathy And How It Relates To Diabetes: Diabetics have to endure various medical conditions in conjunction with their diabetes. One such condition which may occur in diabetics is neuropathy, or nerve damage as it is more commonly known. In fact, approximately 50% of diabetics will experience some type of neuropathy. The following will discuss the condition of neuropathy and how it pertains to diabetics.

What Is Neuropathy
Neuropathy is damage which occurs to the various nerves within the body. When the nerve damage occurs as a result of the diabetes it is more specifically known as diabetic neuropathy. There are various types of neuropathy including sensorimotor neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy and focal neuropathy. Sensorimotor neuropathy is sometimes called peripheral neuropathy and can lead to tingling, pain, numbness and even weakness in the hands and feet. Autonomic neuropathy has symptoms which are a bit more serious and may consist of vomiting, bladder problems, diarrhea, digestive problems, elimination of low blood sugar warning signs, dizziness, sweat gland issues and changes in the eyes pertaining to reaction to light. As for the focal neuropathy, this type of nerve damage can lead to double vision, paralysis on the side of the face and pain throughout the body.

How Does Neuropathy Relate to Diabetes
Diabetic neuropathy is caused by the frequent high blood sugar levels in the body. Those who have more episodes of high blood glucose levels will often be more likely to experience diabetic neuropathy. How much nerve damage one sustains will depend on various factors such as length of time being diabetic, severity of the diabetes and how old you are. Alcohol is another factor relating to diabetics becoming susceptible to neuropathy as those who drink a lot will be more likely to sustain nerve damage than those who have an occasional drink or do not drink at all.

Diagnosis Of Diabetic Neuropathy
If you are diabetic and wondering if neuropathy is an issue for you, there are a few ways in which doctors diagnose diabetic neuropathy. Simple tests such as sensitivity to touch and temperature will be performed. More clinical tests including having an electromyogram and nerve conduction studies performed will pinpoint whether any types of nerve damage have occurred. By discussing your individual symptoms with your doctor, it will make it easier for the medical health professional to diagnose the type of nerve damage and the severity thereof.

Prevention Of Diabetic Neuropathy
The main way to prevent the occurrence of diabetic neuropathy is to keep your blood sugar level in check. Always be sure to monitor your blood glucose level and take the insulin as soon as it is needed. Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in a reasonable amount of exercise will help to keep your blood glucose level steady. There are a wide array of diabetic cookbooks on the consumer market these days which can help with eating healthy and enjoying your meals at the same time. It is also imperative that diabetics keep a healthy and consistent weight as this too will help to keep blood glucose levels in target range.

Treatment Of Neuropathy Experienced By Diabetics
With regard to specific treatment methods, how the nerve damage is treated will depend on the symptoms which the diabetic is experiencing. For example, those who are experiencing pain may be given pain-relieving medications and those who have digestive problems may be prescribed medicines which treat such conditions. The treatment will be on a symptom-by-symptom basis as this is the best way to deal with any problems which may arise as a result of the neuropathy. As stated above, the doctor will recommend that the individual eat healthy, exercise and maintain a target weight to keep neuropathy and its accompanying symptoms at bay.

Identifying The Complications Associated With Diabetes

The complications associated with diabetes are widespread, and can span throughout the entire body. With more than 16 million Americans affected by this chronic illness, the concern and interest of its consequences have risen dramatically. People living with diabetes are curious to learn about the background of this illness, and the problems it can ultimately cause its victims.

The complications associated with diabetes are widespread, and can span throughout the entire body. With more than 16 million Americans affected by this chronic illness, the concern and interest of its consequences have risen dramatically. People living with Diabetes are curious to learn about the background of this illness, and the problems it can ultimately cause its victims.

A Glimpse into the World of Diabetes
To truly understand diabetes mellitus and its projected complications, the background of the illness must first be addressed. It is common knowledge that our bodies need energy to function. This energy comes in the form of blood sugar, or glucose, which fuels our body cells and allows us to operate. Our bodies are extremely sensitive to changes in blood sugar levels, because the brain relies almost solely on this glucose for fuel. The body of a diabetic is unable to use the hormone insulin properly, which in turn results in extreme blood sugar levels. This in turn can result in several body changes, and in time, complications.

There are two forms of diabetes, Type I and Type II. The more serious of the forms, Type I diabetes usually occurs suddenly, typically in the childhood or adolescent years of life. Most cases of Type I diabetes will be diagnosed before the age of 30. Type I diabetes is unable to produce a suitable amount of insulin, due to pancreatic dysfunctions. Type I diabetes can lead to a potentially fatal condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. Noted symptoms of Type I are: extreme thirst, excessive urination, fatigue, nausea, and weight loss. Those affected by Type I diabetes must inject insulin, or engage in insulin pump therapy.

The more common of the two forms, Type II diabetes is often called “adult onset diabetes,” and primarily occurs after the age of 30. In Type II diabetes, some insulin may be produced, but, the body has become resistant to the hormone, which in turn prevents glucose from entering body cells. Insulin resistence causes both insulin and blood sugar levels to increase. Type II diabetes is commonly attributed to obesity. High glucose levels in Type II diabetes can lead to symptoms such as extreme thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, increased appetite, and loss of weight. Many Type II patients, however, do not exhibit any symptoms whatsoever. Type II diabetes can be controlled by a change in both diet and lifestyle.

What are the Complications in Type I and II Diabetes?
When diabetes is not properly managed, several complications can ultimately ensue. Some of the most notable complications are the following:

Cerebrovascular Disease affects the vessels that lead to the brain. If one of the more major vessels is blocked, a stroke can occur. This disease appears to develop earlier in a diabetes patient than in a non-diabetic individual.

A condition in which nerve fibers and endings are damaged, neuropathy is a common disorder in the diabetic patient. Diabetic neuropathy can be caused by either high or low blood sugar levels, as well as, insulin deficiency. Numbness, tingling, and pain in the extremities are symptoms of neuropathy.

An eye problem known as retinopathy is also prevalent in diabetes cases. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when damage occurs to the tiny capillaries that provide nourishment to the retina. This damage can cause blood and fluid to seep into the small vessel walls. This condition is one of the leading causes of vision deterioration in the nation.

Coronary Artery Disease has been attributed to over half of all deaths in diabetic patients. Insulin resistence most encountered in Type II diabetes has been linked to this potentially fatal disease.

To avoid these potential complications, diabetics are advised to follow their suggested course of treatment and controlling methods. Whether through insulin-pump therapy, or diet overhauls, both types of diabetes can easily be managed by the patient committed to living a long, rewarding life.

Neuropathy Adds Complications To Diabetes

One of the primary complications in diabetes is a condition called neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy refers to a group of nerve disorders caused by the disease, and is known to affect nerve fibers throughout the body. Hands and feet are the two body parts most commonly affected by neuropathy, however, numbness, tingling, and pain can occur in the arms and legs as well. The longer an individual has diabetes, the greater risk he or she has of developing neuropathy.

One of the primary complications in diabetes is a condition called neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy refers to a group of nerve disorders caused by the disease, and is known to affect nerve fibers throughout the body. Hands and feet are the two body parts most commonly affected by neuropathy, however, numbness, tingling, and pain can occur in the arms and legs as well. The longer an individual has diabetes, the greater risk he or she has of developing neuropathy.

Common Causes of Diabetic Neuropathy
Approximately half of the number of people diagnosed with diabetes is inflicted with some type of neuropathy. Diabetics who have had the disease for more than 25 years have the highest risk of developing this condition. Neuropathy also occurs more frequently in those who have had trouble managing glucose levels. Finally, diabetes patients that are over 40 years of ages, and those who carry excess weight are more prone to this complication.

Diabetic neuropathy can be classified in four different forms, peripheral, autonomic, proximal, and focal. Each variety of neuropathy can affect the body in various ways. Peripheral neuropathy can cause discomfort or feeling loss in the hands and arms, in addition to the, feet, toes and legs. Changes in bowel and bladder function, digestion, and sexual reactions are defined as autonomic neuropathy. The third form of the condition, proximal neuropathy, causes pain in the hips, thighs, and buttocks, leading to weakness in the lower extremities. Virtually any body nerve can be affected may the last type of neuropathy. Focal neuropathy induces abrupt weakness in one or a bundle of nerve fibers, which results in both muscle pain and weakness. The causes of neuropathy depend of each distinct form, and nerve damage can occur because of a variety of factors and elements. Neurovascular and autoimmune factors can result in damage to the blood capillaries and cause inflammation in the nerves. Metabolic factors such as higher than normal glucose levels and lower levels of insulin can also contribute to diabetic neuropathy. Lifestyle elements are can affect neuropathy, as well. Alcohol use and smoking are also two factors that can contribute greatly to diabetic neuropathy.

Symptoms are Varied In Diabetic Neuropathy
The types of neuropathy present, and the nerves that are affected, are a contributing aspect to the symptoms involved. Many diabetics have no signs in the beginning, while others experience numbness and pain. Symptoms are very mild in the early stages of the disease, as nerve damage can take several years to develop. Signs and symptoms that do occur include: numbness, pain, and weakness in the upper and lower extremities, stomach problems such as, indigestion, nausea, constipation or diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction. Because of the physical discomfort that neuropathy can cause, emotional stress can result in depression and weight loss.

Preventing Diabetic Neuropathy
It is possible to prevent diabetic neuropathy by properly controlling your diabetes, and maintaining normal blood glucose levels. Those already affected by this debilitating condition should consult with their physician to devise the best possible care plan.

Foot care is crucial in the average diabetes patient. Every diabetic should make proper foot care a part of their everyday routine. There are a few tips to be taken into consideration when dealing with a foot care plan. First of all, a mild soap should be used to wash the entire foot, even between the toes, and then promptly pat dry. Cracked and dry skin should be repaired by using a moisturizing lotion or cream. Wearing properly fitting shoes and soft socks is a must for the diabetic to keep the feet comfortable and protected. If you noticed any redness, swelling, or wounds on your feet, your physician should be contacted at once. Preventing problems before they arise is a key component in keeping your feet healthy and fit.

Numbness And Diabetes

There are dozens of complications that come with having diabetes and none of them are easy. Some are just plain hard to deal with and some are just to full of pain to try and deal with. If you have diabetes then I don’t have to for warn you about the complications that come with it. However, maybe I can help to take some of that pain away by introducing some new medications that will help the pain of diabetes seem less depressing.

numbness and diabetesNumbness and Diabetes: There are dozens of complications that come with having diabetes and none of them are easy. Some are just plain hard to deal with and some are just to full of pain to try and deal with. If you have diabetes then I don’t have to for warn you about the complications that come with it. However, maybe I can help to take some of that pain away by introducing some new medications that will help the pain of diabetes seem less depressing.

However, in this article I am referring to the complication that’s called Neuropathy. Some other names for Neuropathy that are commonly used is loss of sensation Again, if you have been diagnosed with diabetes and are feeling the signs and symptoms of Neuropathy then I don’t have to tell you about the pain and stressfulness that you are feeling, if fact you could probably tell me a thing or two. On the other hand, there are many who are unfamiliar with this complications so I will go over some of the finer details and the some medications that might help things to feel a bit better.

Diabetic Neuropathy effects nearly 60 percent of those who have been diagnosed with diabetes, this means there has been some form of damage to the nerves that has been caused by long term symptoms of diabetes. Some of the symptoms that might be hard to handle while going through Neuropathy is some tingling feeling in your arms and legs along with numbness, prickling and occasionally you may feel some cramping, burning or some sensitivity in touching things or being touched. When these symptoms first begin you will notice the pain more in your legs and feet and then it will travel through other parts of your body and then to your hands where it can be most tender at. Because you are always using your hands daily for different activities.

This complication has been observed by many scientists who are not sure of what is causing Neuropathy in individuals with diabetes. These factors however have also been observed in thinking they are the cause of this condition. Scientists believe that some damaged oxygen supply to the nerves that has been caused by the damage given to smaller blood vessels throughout the body. Some have described their pain as a feeling of a hand or foot going to sleep, except it never goes away. This is referred to as a compressed nerve.

Sometimes though, you have the feeling of numbness or tingling when you have a pinched nerve, this can very annoying and often painful. This condition is in reference to damage that has happened through injury of a nerve or a set of nerves. Sometimes a simple pinched nerve can cause other conditions like tennis elbow, neuropathy and carpal tunnel. Other causes of numbness and pain can be caused by nerve disorders, circulatory disorders and Parenthesis. Parenthesis is can have some of the same signs as Neuropathy such as a feeling of pins and needles running through-out your body, some prickling and burning may be felt also. Parenthesis simply means abnormal burning of the arms, legs, hands and feet. Causes of this condition can be Nerve entrapment, Nerve compression, stroke, traumatic nerve damage or even neuropathy. So it is extremely important to get your body checked to find out what it wrong and what condition you may have. Never try to diagnose yourself when having this “tingling” sensation going through-out your body.

When you have neuropathy you can try a number of things to help you regain some feeling back into your hands and feet. Number one that is always said by doctor is medication. However, there are many people who prefer a different method of healing rather then prescription drugs. If you are one of these people then you might want to try some physical therapy, this may help you find some relief in the pain that you feel.

When you are feeling numbness in both your hands and feet you always want to go into your doctor’s office and find out what it causing it. It can be something minor like a pinched nerve to as big as something that shows the first stages of being a diabetic. Similar things that could be causing the problems in both your hands and feet tingling are treatments of Cancers like breast cancer, lung cancer or even brain cancer some chemotherapy can bring the onset of numbness and tingling into your body which spreads to your arms and legs. Sometimes the numbness can be caused by a vitamin deficiency such as lack of vitamin b-12, vitamin b-6 or thiamine. That’s not is though, some tingling sensation can be brought on by underlying illnesses not ready to show themselves yet. Multiple Sclerosis, which is an auto-immune disorder, can cause adverse affects of numbness and tingling. So those are the reason it is so important to get checked out as soon as possible. You never want to take anything for granted.

Let’s talk about some herbs that might help you to feel better from the symptoms of Neuropathy. Most people know that when you take Vitamin E, you are taking just about one of the most important helpful vitamins there are out there. Vitamin E conquers so many health conditions, not to mention the conditions that it prevents. However, when it comes to Neuropathy and Vitamin E, you are getting another chance at life without the painful effects of Neuropathy. Granted, I would not highly recommend diagnosing yourself and then simply taking vitamin E. However, many people want to feel somewhat safer while taking medication for their conditions and herbal medication helps those people to achieve that. Vitamin E also helps to achieve help with Cystic Fibrosis and those who are having problems with their pancreas.

Other herbal remedies include Cayenne peppers or of course Cayenne flakes, Cayenne only helps to alleviate the pain but can never take it away. If you are taking the herb Cayenne repeatly then you will find that it helps the pain stay at a bare minimum at a very low amount it always helps to restore and heal damage that has been done to your nervous system.

There is not better cure probably then that of tea. There are so many teas out there for you to choose from that your options are endless. Most people like tea and the flavoring of most teas do not vary from one to the other unless you have a tea that contains fruit mixtures. You may find green tea to become one of your favorite teas right off the bat because of its reduction of weight. Though Black tea is considered to be the best tea that you can drink because you are absolutely getting the most out of it. Green tea on the other hand is more helpful for those who have diabetes, cancer and other conditions. Tea helps build your antioxidants back up which will help your immune system fight against all those harsh diseases your body has been prone to while under immune distress. Tea especially hot can be the number one cure for those who need a major herbal remedy.

Treating Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is a medical condition which can occur in both diabetics and non-diabetics. Although not all diabetics will be stricken with cardiovascular disease, they are more susceptible to such a condition. Therefore, it is important to provide a general overview of cardiovascular disease and highlight some treatment methods for such a medical condition.

Cardiovascular disease is a medical condition which can occur in both diabetics and non-diabetics. Although not all diabetics will be stricken with cardiovascular disease, they are more susceptible to such a condition. Therefore, it is important to provide a general overview of cardiovascular disease and highlight some treatment methods for such a medical condition.

What Is Cardiovascular Disease?
Cardiovascular disease is the inclusive name for diseases such as coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease and congestive heart failure. It is highly noted that those who have diabetes are at a high risk for cardiovascular disease. The cardiovascular system includes a number of important bodily components including the heart, blood vessels, arteries and more. In addition, peripheral vascular disease is a type of cardiovascular disease which diabetics are at high risk of getting. This type of cardiovascular disease prevents blood flow to the arms and legs which can cause serious health problems for the individual. Once an individual has had their specific type of cardiovascular disease diagnosed, the next step in the process is to treat such an ailment.

How Is Cardiovascular Disease Treated?
The exact treatment which one receives for their cardiovascular disease will depend on the type of cardiovascular disease which it is. The first type of treatment starts with specific things which you can do to maintain a healthier lifestyle. Certain things which those who have cardiovascular disease may be able to do, so long as your doctor recommends it, include quitting smoking, exercising at least 30 minutes each day, eating a healthy diet aimed at heart health, establish and maintain a healthy weight and monitor various levels such as blood glucose level, cholesterol level and blood pressure. These are simple things which you can do in the comfort of your own home and will greatly help to treat cardiovascular disease and help to prevent future incidents from occurring.

With regard to medical treatment by a physician, the exact treatment which your doctor will prescribe will depend on your specific medical condition, your individual health history, your current health status and other items tailored specifically to your health. After enduring numerous tests to determine what your specific condition may be with regard to cardiovascular disease, the doctor may prescribe one of many different medications including ones which lower cholesterol, thin out the blood, are beta-blockers, strengthen the heartbeat, expand veins and arteries and more.

Treating Cardiovascular Disease by Eating a Healthy Diet
As mentioned above, eating healthy foods is a wonderful way to promote good cardiovascular health and get you back on the road to recovery from cardiovascular disease. This is important not only for those experiencing cardiovascular disease but to aid in keeping one’s diabetes in check as well. Certain items which must be on your healthy diet list include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and certain types of fat. Just be sure to choose foods which are in keeping with a recommended diet for individuals who have both cardiovascular disease and diabetes as it is important to eat well to help with both types of medical conditions.

Keeping Weight Down
Maintaining a good weight is also essential for those who suffer from both cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Moderate amounts of exercise will help to keep one in shape when used in conjunction with a healthy diet. Before exercising always check with your doctor to ensure that you are doing the proper types of exercise as you want to stay in shape but not overdo it too much. Keeping your weight down will help you to promote heart health as well as keep your diabetes manageable. Not only is losing weight good for you health wise but it is mentally good for you as well as it promotes stress relief and you will undoubtedly feel good after a workout.

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