There are many available treatments for constipation and diarrhea. Constipation can be treated effectively by drinking more nonalcoholic beverages and exercising regularly. You also can take fiber and stool bulking and softening agents such as psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl and other brand names) or methylcellulose (Citrucel), stool lubricants such as docusate sodium (Colace), enemas, or laxative agents. For diarrhea, your doctor may prescribe fiber, bulking agents (which help to change liquid stool into a soft solid stool), diphenoxylate with atropine (Lomotil) or loperamide (Imodium).

Antibiotics also are used to treat infections associated with poor emptying of the urinary bladder, and your medication list can be adjusted to minimize medicines that could contribute to the problem of incomplete bladder emptying. Catheters can be used to empty the bladder when neuropathy is severe.

For impotence, your doctor may prescribe the medication sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra) or tadalafil (Cialis). Other treatments that commonly are used to treat impotence include a vacuum cylinder with a hand pump, injections into the penis of a drug that promotes erections, or surgery to implant a small inflatable balloon inside the penis, which can be filled or deflated as needed.

Dizziness when standing can be treated by drinking more fluids and by using medicines that increase your body salt and water.

If peripheral neuropathy affects your feet, you should wash your feet every day and check them for any cuts, sores or swellings. You should wear soft, clean socks and well-fitting shoes and never go barefoot. Cut your toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. Never try to remove calluses or warts yourself. Always show them to your doctor. All diabetics should visit a podiatrist once each year.