D.iabetes can disrupt your nights in ways that are easy to overlook. Recognizing these signs can lead to early diagnosis and better management.
1. Frequent Urination
Waking up multiple times to urinate may be due to high b.lood sugar. Your k.idneys work overtime to remove excess glucose, leading to more nighttime bathroom trips.
2. Night Sweats
Low b.lood sugar at night (nocturnal hypoglycemia) can trigger excessive sweating. This may signal the need to adjust medication or meals.
3. Hypoglycemia Symptoms
Confusion, hunger, shakiness, blurred vision, and heart palpitations at night can all stem from low b.lood sugar. Regular monitoring helps manage these symptoms.
4. Restless Legs
Tingling or the urge to move your legs at night may be linked to nerve damage from high b.lood sugar (diabetic neuropathy).
5. Sleep Apnea
D.i.abetes and obesity raise the risk of sleep apnea, where breathing pauses during sleep. This leads to poor rest and daytime fatigue.
6. Increased Thirst
Waking up thirsty or with a dry mouth may point to dehydration from high b.lood sugar and frequent urination.
7. Fatigue
Still tired despite a full night’s sleep? Without enough insulin or insulin sensitivity, your cells don’t get the energy they need.
8. Dry Mouth
High b.lood sugar can reduce saliva, causing dry mouth that may disturb your sleep.
9. Insomnia
B.lood sugar swings—either too high or too low—can lead to restless nights and disrupted sleep.
The Bottom Line:
If you experience any of these nighttime issues regularly, talk to a healthcare provider. Managing b.lood sugar with diet, exercise, and proper treatment can improve your sleep—and your health.