What is diabetes fatigue?
According to the American Diabetes Association, extreme fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of diabetes. In a 2015 study published in the Journal of Industrial Psychiatry, fatigue was found in 68 percent of participants with diabetes.
Persistent fatigue in people with diabetes can significantly impact their daily lives, says endocrinologist Ashok Kumar Jhingan, Senior Director of the Centre (Diabetes, Thyroid, Obesity and Endocrinology) at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, India.
Some common causes of fatigue due to diabetes are:
- High blood sugar can disrupt the body's ability to use sugar for energy and then lead to feeling tired.
- Frequent urination related to diabetes can lead to dehydration, which can add to fatigue.
- Some diabetes medications, such as corticosteroids, statins, diuretics, and beta-blockers, can cause fatigue as a side effect.
- Complications such as heart disease, neuropathy, and retinopathy can increase feelings of fatigue in diabetics.
- Low blood sugar that occurs between 2 and 4 a.m. can trigger the release of stress hormones, leading to fatigue.
- Conditions such as insomnia can affect deep sleep, leading to more fatigue during the day.
- Obesity often aggravates fatigue, making daily activities more tiring.
- A sedentary lifestyle can cause feelings of fatigue because physical activity is essential to maintain energy levels.
What are the symptoms of diabetes fatigue?
Physical symptoms
People with diabetes may feel slow, sluggish, and need more effort to complete physical tasks at home or work.
Cognitive symptoms
Cognitive fatigue can manifest as decreased concentration, attention, and mental stamina. You may notice that you think more slowly, have difficulty concentrating on tasks, and this can affect your daily activities.
Ways to Control Fatigue Due to Diabetes
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Participate in physical activities.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Stress management.
- Monitor blood sugar levels regularly.
