Neuropathy is not just a condition that strikes diabetics. However, the symptoms can be the same regardless of the reason for the development of the condition. If you are living with neuropathy, here is what you need to know.  

What Can You Do at Home to Treat the Condition? 

One of the most important ways you can slow the progression of neuropathy is to exercise. Exercising will not necessarily reverse the effects of the condition, but it can help to improve your muscle strength and balance. It can also help with your circulation, which is necessary to control the pain that is associated with neuropathy.  

In addition to exercising, you also need to watch your diet. There are some foods that you can eat that can help with boosting your body's ability to fight against the symptoms of neuropathy. For instance, leafy green vegetables, bananas, oats, and beans are all rich in vitamins that help with boosting energy levels and increasing natural pain fighters.  

If you have developed neuropathy as a result of diabetes, getting your blood glucose levels under control. Opting for a healthier diet and exercising can help. You also need to focus on keeping your stress levels low. Stress can have a direct impact on your blood glucose and exacerbate the symptoms of neuropathy.  

What If Your Symptoms Worsen? 

Ideally, you should be under the care of your doctor for the neuropathy and the condition that led to its development. If you are not regularly seeing your doctor, now is the time to schedule an appointment.  

The pain from the condition can be severe enough to interfere with your ability to perform daily living tasks, including taking care of your hygiene. If you are unable to get pain relief from at-home methods, the doctor can prescribe a pain reliever, such as an anticonvulsant.  

An anticonvulsant works by relaxing your muscles when you are experiencing a bout of pain. The drug will help to relax your blood vessels, which allows the blood to continue to flow. As your circulation improves, your pain should decrease.  

If the condition worsens, your doctor might discuss the possibility of surgery with you. Sometimes, nerve compression can occur with the nerve damage, which can worsen the pain. Your doctor can perform a surgical procedure to help with decompressing the nerves. The decompression should lead to decreased pain and improved functionality in the affected parts.