Have you heard about the link between diabetes and sleep? In fact, there is a link between the two even if diabetes symptoms have not yet developed. Poor sleeping habits are one of the tell-tale indicators and possible causes of future diabetes.

Learn more about the linkages and how they affect each other.

Connection Between Diabetes and Sleep

The link between this disease and sleep is blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar levels are too high or too low, you can also have trouble sleeping. Insomnia, resulting from an imbalance in your blood sugar levels can lead to lethargy. Furthermore, the quality of sleep you get can also affect blood sugar levels.

Elderly woman with diabetes sleeping on the bed alone

Blood sugar control can, therefore, be key to re-establishing a healthy sleep pattern and keeping diabetes in check.

What’s more, high blood sugar levels at night can make you feel too warm or irritable and unsettled. To get a good night’s sleep try to keep your blood sugar levels low and have a good bedtime routine. Other tips include ensuring that you have daytime exercise, and that your bedroom is not too hot and stuffy.

One diabetes-related condition that can keep you awake at night is restless leg syndrome. This makes you want to move your legs to relieve discomfort in them. Again, there may be a link with blood glucose levels. Talk to your doctor if you experience such symptoms and ask for a blood sugar test.

Do diabetics need more sleep?

People with diabetes tend to feel tired during the day and sleep poorly at night. They may also be more likely to resort to comfort foods during the day, which exacerbates the problem. Diabetics also often take insulin or other blood sugar medication which can affect blood sugar levels and disrupt sleep.

Research also indicates a possible link between the body’s inability to produce enough insulin and sleep deprivation. A good night’s sleep is important for recharging our bodies, regulating weight, and ensuring a healthy immune system.

Type-2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease, involves an intolerance to sugar. People with this type of diabetes usually have high levels of sugar (glucose) in their blood. Their bodies also have a problem producing enough insulin, a hormone that helps convert sugar/glucose into energy. That’s why diabetics often lack energy and feel lethargic.

Haym Salomon Home For Nursing & Rehabilitation in Brooklyn NY sees many patients with diabetes and is experienced at providing wound care, podiatry for them and treating the condition. Our friendly staff provide emotional support as well as a range of restorative therapies, including physical therapy. We understand the links between diabetes and sleep and tailor our medical care programs to individual needs.

If you or your loved one need nursing care and rehab, contact us or walk in to talk to us and see our facilities. We are here to answer all your questions. Let us know your concerns. Our Admissions and finance team are here to smooth out any issues you may have.

This content comprises informative and educational resources only and can not be considered as a substitute for professional health or medical guidance. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. If you have any inquiries or apprehensions about your medical condition or health goals, talk with a licensed physician or healthcare provider.