Key Information
Peripheral neuropathy:
Medications that may help to alleviate neuropathic pain include gabapentin, pregabalin and duloxetine. Medical staff can give advice regarding appropriate foot care and footwear. This is important in order to prevent painless ulcers at pressure points and to protect areas of the foot that lack sensation.
Autonomic neuropathy:
If there is orthostatic hypotension (decrease in blood pressure and faintness on standing up from sitting or lying positions), thigh high elastic stockings may be recommended. Drug treatment with midodrine may also be helpful. Care should be taken to avoid dehydration if there is vomiting and diarrhoea. Intravenous fluids and anti-nausea drugs may be necessary, but it is important to avoid fluid overload if there is heart disease. There are drugs that can help to control diarrhoea and constipation, and others that can help to combat erectile dysfunction.