Vaginal or urinary tract infections can interfere with intimacy and must be treated. The use of a water-soluble vaginal moisturizer may be helpful for women who note decreased vaginal lubrication. The digestive process may also be affected by autonomic neuropathy. Nerve damage can cause the stomach to empty more slowly and there may be difficulty with swallowing, or problems with constipation and diarrhea. For individuals with symptoms of indigestion, belching, nausea or vomiting it may be helpful to eat small frequent meals and avoid fats.
Some individuals find that a wheat-free diet helps with diarrhea symptoms.
Cutting back on fiber may be beneficial as well. The prescription drug metoclopramide can help to speed digestion and relieve nausea in the short term. Other drugs that help regulate digestion, reduce stomach acid, and control diarrhea are available as well. Cardiovascular Changes Damage to the nerves that innervate the cardiovascular system can result in alterations in blood pressure and heart rate. This may result in light-headedness, dizziness, or fainting.