Many people with diabetes have to limit their inactivity and make sure they get enough “good carbohydrates” – those from plant foods that provide vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. They also need to take medications to keep their blood sugar level in check.
But some people with diabetes struggle with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and become obsessed with constantly checking their blood sugar levels. This can be physically and emotionally unhealthy.
1. Feeling Fatigued
Feeling tired is a normal response to illness, stress, boredom and lack of sleep. However, persistent fatigue that doesn’t go away is a sign that you need to see your doctor.
Fatigue can also be a symptom of low blood sugar. When you’re experiencing this, try to eat a carbohydrate such as fruit juice, soda or hard candy and wait about 15 minutes before checking your blood sugar again. If you’re still feeling tired, talk to your doctor about antidepressant medication. Managing diabetes can be tough on your mental health.
2. Feeling Uncomfortable
Feeling uncomfortable is a normal part of the recovery process. It’s a sign that you’re pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. This is how you grow – personally, professionally and romantically.
Doing new things triggers a unique part of the brain that releases dopamine, nature’s “feel-good chemical.” Over time, this helps you get used to feeling uncomfortable and makes it less scary in the future. This allows you to grow and experience new success. You can also learn releasing techniques that help you let go of negative feelings like fear and anger.
3. Losing Appetite
A loss of appetite can be a sign that something is wrong. It may be a symptom of an illness or condition such as the common stomach bug or flu, or even certain medications or drugs.
A loss of appetite can also be a sign of depression or an eating disorder like anorexia nervosa. If it continues for a long time, it is important to see a doctor for tests and treatment. Until then, it may help to eat small meals often throughout the day that are high in calories and protein.
4. Feeling Blurred Vision
Blurry vision is common with high blood sugar, as the small blood vessels in the eyes become damaged and swollen from excess fluid. This can lead to blurred vision, which may improve or worsen as blood sugar levels rise and fall. Blurry vision can also be a sign of preeclampsia, which is a dangerous condition that occurs late in pregnancy and involves high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Seek emergency medical attention if blurry vision is severe or gets worse quickly.
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5. Feeling Shaky or Dizzy
Feeling dizzy can be a sign that your blood sugar levels are out of control. It also can indicate that you have an underlying health condition.
Dizziness can feel like a room is spinning or you are swaying. It can feel very intense and can cause nausea and vomiting.
If you are experiencing dizziness, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible. They will do a full exam, including tests to check your blood sugar levels and look for warning signs. They may recommend a blood test or an echocardiogram.
6. Feeling Headaches
Getting headaches regularly can be a sign of diabetes. It’s important to figure out what triggers your headaches so you can avoid them. This might include avoiding strong scents, eating foods that contain migraine triggers and practicing relaxation techniques.
Some people with diabetes also experience cluster headaches. These are painful, throbbing headaches that occur several times a day for a month or two.
Stress, muscle tension and enlarged blood vessels can trigger these headaches. These can be difficult to treat, so it’s best to avoid them whenever possible.
7. Feeling Dehydrated
A dry mouth and thirst are signs you’re dehydrated. You might have dark-colored pee (urine). Severe dehydration shrinks blood vessels, which can raise blood pressure.
Anyone can become dehydrated, especially if they sweat a lot during strenuous exercise or have diarrhea or a fever with vomiting. Infants and young children are at higher risk for severe dehydration, because they can’t tell you when they’re thirsty or get their own drinks. Drink plenty of fluids, and avoid caffeinated beverages or salty snacks. They can make the symptoms worse.
8. Feeling Swollen Eyes
A little puffiness under the eyes is normal, but if you have significant swelling in your eyelids and other areas of the body, this could be a sign that your blood sugar is high. You can try lying down and putting a cold compress on your head, or you can also rinse your eyes with clean water to reduce inflammation. If your symptoms become severe and you experience difficulty thinking or speaking, feel like you’re going to faint, twitch, or become pale, call 911 or your emergency department right away.
9. Feeling Diarrhea
The frequent passage of loose, watery stools is called diarrhea. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration and a loss of electrolytes. If you have severe or persistent diarrhea, see your doctor right away.
The doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and health history. They may do tests to find the cause of your diarrhea. These include a fasting blood test and drinking a special high-sugar drink. A stool sample will also be tested for bacterial infections. Antinausea medications (ondansetron or prochlorperazine) can help ease nausea. A diet low in fat and sugar is usually recommended, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
