What are the symptoms and treatments for neuropathic pain caused by diabetes?

Neuropathic pain occurs when the nerves in the body are damaged and send incorrect signals to the brain. This type of pain is often chronic and can feel like burning, tingling, or electric shocks. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common cause of neuropathic pain, affecting 12% to 50% of people with diabetes. The most common form is distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP), where symptoms start in the feet and move up the legs, and can eventually affect the hands and arms. Symptoms include pain, burning, tingling, and eventually numbness. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and NSAIDs can help with mild pain, while prescription medications such as anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin) and antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) are used for more severe pain. In some cases, stronger medications like tramadol or opioids may be prescribed. Other treatments include topical creams, neuromodulation, and surgery to relieve nerve pressure.