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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What To Do About Peripheral Neuropathy?

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Chicago, IL

About a week and a half ago, I was diagnosed with diabetes, which is something I'm still trying to wrap my head around. In the meantime, I've been dealing with swelling in my feet, my left swells more than my right. The main thing for me is the neuropathy. I've been dealing with that for about a year in my feet and fingers, but it's gotten worse over the past few months. The neuropathy is pretty much constant and there are times when it's actually painful. I don't know if it's from HIV or… read more

April 3
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A myHIVteam Member

I use a tens unit and I am also prescribed gabapentin. A TENS unit, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit, is a small, battery-powered device that uses electric current to activate nerves and relieve pain. When the machine is turned on, it sends small electrical impulses to the skin through electrodes
that are attached to sticky pads. This creates a tingling
sensation, and the electrical impulses can reduce pain signals going to the brain and spinal cord. The impulses may also stimulate the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=tens+unit&hvbmt=...

Amazon.com : tens
Amazon.com : tens
April 3
A myHIVteam Member

Neuropathy, has always been a very delicate subject in the world of diabetes and HIV
... It has never been cured. In other cases, there can be some relief. The best case scenario is to talk to your doctor or neurologist.

April 3
A myHIVteam Member

Neuropathy began for me in 2014, 14 years after I was diagnosed. After multiple test for blood flow in my lower legs, my doctor was puzzled until I asked her if medication could be the culprit. Yep! I don't have swelling anymore or the constant nuisance of tingling. I don't take any medication for the condition. I just live and deal with the side effect of neuropathy. I still hike and walk during my travels.

April 5
A myHIVteam Member

The tens type unit is the only thing to help me

April 4

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