Are Diabetes Symptoms Worse at Night?
If you have diabetes, you may wonder, “Why are my diabetes symptoms worse at night?” Your health care professional will ask you about your weight, family history, and level of physical activity during the day, but they rarely ask about your sleep patterns. And many professionals don’t even bother asking about your day job or work hours. But sleep has a direct bearing on your biochemical tests. Consequently, you need to disclose how much sleep you get at night.
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While you may not be aware of it, obstructive sleep apnea can affect your blood glucose levels and cause a buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood. If you notice periods of gasping, snorting, or shortness of breath during the night, you may have obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea symptoms can include choking, snorting, and excessive sleepiness.
Insufficient sleep may result in a lack of motivation and irritability, which may impact relationships with family members. Additionally, insufficient sleep may lead to a patient’s forgetfulness when taking diabetes medications, which could lead to additional complications and lower blood sugar. The condition may be genetically linked and is most common among people over 40 and overweight individuals. People with type 2 diabetes are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea than those without it.
Is your blood sugar high at night? If so, you may be prone to frequent urination. Frequent urination is a symptom of high blood sugar, which can interfere with sleep and cause you to get up frequently to pee. Other symptoms of high blood sugar include headaches, thirst, and confusion, which can keep you awake and prevent you from falling asleep.
Low blood sugar levels are another common cause of tiredness, which is caused by the Somogyi effect or dawn phenomenon. These events can cause your blood sugar levels to spike and fall quickly, resulting in a feeling of lethargy. People with diabetes are at risk for these hypoglycemic episodes, which can result in sleepless nights and dizziness. Some even experience nighttime vision disturbances.
Restless legs syndrome
Are diabetes symptoms more severe at night? If yes, you may want to seek medical advice. While it is important to monitor your blood glucose levels, it is also critical to get a good night’s sleep. Restless legs syndrome can occur as a result of high glucose levels and can prevent you from falling asleep. In addition, if you experience restless legs, you should consult with a doctor or healthcare provider.
Several things can cause your blood glucose to drop at night. Low blood sugar during the night can disrupt your sleep, resulting in difficulty waking up and feeling tired throughout the day. It is possible to experience nocturnal hypoglycemia without realizing it, but treatment for this condition is usually simple. Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is another potential reason for increased diabetes symptoms at night. It is characterized by uncomfortable leg sensations, including a burning sensation and an insect crawling on your legs.
If you are wondering, “Are diabetes symptoms worse at night?” you’re not alone. Diabetes and sleep are intricately connected. While most people understand that diabetes affects diet and exercise, they may not know that blood sugar levels have a direct impact on sleep. Insomnia, for example, can be a direct result of high blood sugar. The next day can leave you feeling drowsy and fatigued.
Sleeping hygiene is crucial for a healthy lifestyle, as waking up multiple times at night can be dangerous for your health. Getting a warm shower before bed can reduce the likelihood of experiencing frequent episodes of nighttime awakenings. Reading a book instead of watching television can help you wind down and relax. Avoid alcohol, as this can cut into your sleep. Keeping a journal is a great way to reduce anxiety about chronic conditions.