by Rebecca Webb, PharmD  Pharmacy Clinical Services Manager, K-VA-T Food Stores

November is National Diabetes Month.  You or someone you know may be living with this common disease.  Diabetes occurs when a person’s body cannot produce or utilize the hormone insulin properly.  This results in elevated blood glucose, or sugar, levels.  Over time, this increased glucose can lead to many serious complications with an array of symptoms.  Among these numerous health concerns are neuropathy, skin changes, and foot complications.  It is absolutely imperative to keep blood glucose levels within target range to help to prevent or delay complications related to diabetes.

There is currently no cure for diabetes.  However, the disease can be managed with lifestyle modifications and with certain medications.  Lifestyle modifications can include healthier decisions in diet and exercise, and even smoking cessation.  There are also many categories of prescription medications used to treat diabetes and prevent further complications of the disease.  It is important for diabetics to consult with their doctors about which options are best for their situations.  Also, there are many over-the-counter options utilized in the management of symptoms associated diabetes.  Food City pharmacists can help answer questions or assist with concerns about both prescription and over-the-counter medications for diabetics. 

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage resulting from diabetes and is one of the most common complications experienced by diabetics.  Peripheral neuropathy is a specific type that affects the body’s extremities.  Symptoms can include tingling, pain, burning, increased sensitivity, numbness, and weakness in the hands and feet.  Options for over-the-counter medications utilized in the symptom management of this complication include DiabetAid®, Zostrix®, Aspercreme® with Lidocaine, and Biofreeze®.  If you suffer from diabetic neuropathy, talk with your Food City Pharmacist about these and other options for symptom management.  

Another prevalent complication for diabetics concerns changes in skin.  One of the main issues diabetics face is dry skin on their feet, which may peel and crack.  This along with neuropathy and poor blood flow can lead to ulcers, infections, and possibly amputations.  Therefore, proper foot care is crucial to diabetics.  In addition to daily foot exams, appropriate footwear, and keeping feet dry, there are over-the-counter creams diabetics can use to keep their feet healthy.  Options can include Gold Bond® Ultimate, Zim’s® Crack Creme, Eucerin®, and Urea 20 Cream.  There are also many standard lotions for general dry skin in diabetics.  Ask your Food City Pharmacist about the numerous dermatological products available for diabetics. 

    There are many additional over-the-counter medications and devices marketed specifically for diabetics including oral glucose tablets, multivitamins, supplements, cough medicines, diabetic testing supplies, and oral care products.  There are also certain over-the-counter medications diabetics should avoid.  Consult your local Food City Pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about treating, preventing, or managing symptoms of diabetes.