Myths and Facts

If you have Diabetic Nerve Pain, also called painful DPN, or if you think you may have it, one of the best things you can do is learn more about it. But some of the things you read or hear about painful DPN may not be true. These myths can affect your attitude toward DPN. They may also keep you from finding a treatment that works for you.

It’s important that you know the truth about Diabetic Nerve Pain. Below are some common myths and the real facts.

Myth: Diabetic Nerve Pain is very rare, and it’s not likely that I would have it.

Fact: Over 18 million Americans have diabetes. And up to half of them will have some form of nerve damage due to their diabetes. Some of these people will have symptoms such as burning, sharp, or shooting pain.

Even if your symptoms seem mild now, the nerve damage may get worse over time and lead to serious problems. Make sure you talk to your doctor at the first sign of any symptoms.

Myth: All pain is the same.

Fact: There are different types of pain. The nerve pain that occurs with Diabetic Nerve Pain is different from other types of pain you may feel. It is not like pain from a muscle ache or a sprained ankle. This is why products that may relieve your headaches, muscle aches, and joint aches may not work on the burning, stabbing, shooting pain that can be caused by nerve damage.

Learn more about the differences between nerve pain and muscle pain.

Myth: There is no good treatment for the type of pain I’m feeling.

Fact: Although common pain medicines like aspirin have not been clinically proven to work very well for nerve pain, there are other treatment options. LYRICA^® (pregabalin) capsules CV has been proven effective in clinical studies. It has been approved to treat this type of nerve pain. Be sure to ask your doctor if LYRICA is right for you.

Myth: Nerve pain is uncomfortable and a bother, but it won’t get in the way of my life.

Fact: Many people with Diabetic Nerve Pain symptoms have trouble walking, working, or being in social situations.

Diabetic Nerve Pain also has some serious risks. If your foot becomes numb, you are at risk for having an injury that you may not feel. If the injury is not treated, this can lead to an infection. In extreme cases, patients may need to have surgery to remove a foot or leg.

Myth: DPN doesn’t lead to other serious medical problems.

Fact: DPN is a major risk factor for foot injury, infection, and amputation. Many people with DPN have numbness in their feet. These people may not be aware of foot injuries because they can’t feel them. These foot injuries can become infected. In the worst cases, injury may lead to the removal of the foot by surgery.

LYRICA will not prevent these medical problems. However, being aware of and taking care of your DPN may. Check your feet regularly and see your doctor if you notice cuts, blisters, or other injuries that do not seem to heal.

Myth: It’s my own fault if I develop DPN because it means I haven’t been managing my diabetes the right way.

Fact: DPN does occur more often in people who have had uncontrolled diabetes for several years. But it also occurs in people who work hard to manage their diabetes.

DPN is not some sort of punishment, and it certainly isn’t your fault. Don’t spend your time blaming yourself. Instead, focus on coping with your condition and talking to your doctor about lifestyle changes and treatment options, including LYRICA, an effective treatment proven to treat nerve pain associated with diabetes.