Diabetes is a chronic condition that may incite other complications such as diabetic neuropathy. This condition results in nerve damage throughout the body, but most notably in the feet. Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy include pain, tingling, numbness or burning sensations that result from sustaining high blood glucose levels for too long.
There is no cure for diabetic neuropathy, but there are ways to treat it so that the pain doesn't progress and become debilitating.
The good news is that diabetic creams can provide relief to these areas that are mildly affected. The creams are easy to apply and act quickly. Just remember to speak with your medical doctor before using one.
What to Look for
There are two main classes of diabetic creams that work to relieve pain and reduce discomfort. One class of creams is called capsaicin, which can be purchased under the names of Capzasin-P and Zostrix. The creams, which come from crushed chili peppers, reduce the sensitivity of the nerve endings that are responsible for moving chemicals back and forth from nerve to nerve. With this reduced sensitivity, pain signals are intercepted and you experience less pain. Capsaicin creams come in either a roll on or lotion form in concentrations measuring 0.025 percent and 0.075 percent.
Usually, an anesthetic is applied first to numb the area and then the cream is applied using rubber gloves because of the burning quality caused by capsaicin. When the person begins to feel it working, usually by experiencing a heating sensation, the cream is removed. It needs to be applied approximately five times a day for a couple of weeks before the individual notices a reduction in pain.
The other class of creams is called lidocaine. Common names for lidocaine are Xylocaine or Xlocard. Lidocaine works by numbing the affected area thereby reducing the sensations of feeling pain. It can be found in a non-prescription gel or lotion form or it can be prescribed and administered via a patch or injection. The prescribed forms are more effective at blocking the pain.
Common Pitfalls
When both of these creams are administered correctly, allergic reactions and other adverse reactions are rare. Applying or taking excessive quantities of lidocaine can result in nervousness or excitability followed by a bout of depression. Excess quantities can also result in low blood pressure, heart arrhythmias or having low heart rates.
Capsaicin creams can interrupt with wound healing. Since proper wound healing is a problem for many diabetics, it is strongly encouraged to take these creams only as directed and per the suggestion of your medical doctor. Also, given the burning qualities of these creams, caution must be taken when applying them.
Other pain-reducing creams such as those that contain cortisone have not shown any pain-relieving benefits for those who suffer from diabetic neuropathy.
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