When an individual has diabetes, some symptoms can affect their overall health.
These can come from the condition itself, other health issues, and the side effects of certain medications.
Dizzinessis one symptom that diabetics may experience.
Verywell / Laura Porter
The brain depends on blood sugar to function properly and as an energy source.
The hormones that the brain depends on to raise blood sugar levels are norepinephrine and epinephrine.
When the brain doesnt get enough of these hormones it cant function properly.
Verywell
This can lead to:
Hypoglycemiais common among diabetic patients.
This can be because of:
Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia is high blood glucose.
It takes place if:
Hyperglycemia can cause many issues if not treated.
Verywell
If an individual has diabetes, they are twice as likely to get high blood pressure.
Approximately two-thirds of adults who have diabetes also have increasedblood pressureand/or use prescription medication for hypertension.
Some symptoms of high blood pressure include:
This, along with diabetic symptoms, can cause complications.
Dehydration
There are times when diabetics have excessive thirst.
This is due to excess glucose, and the kidneys being overworked to absorb and filter that glucose.
If the kidneys cant do this effectively, the extra glucose will come out through the urine.
This will also pull fluids from other tissues causing dehydration.
In turn, drinking more water causes more urination.
Medications
There are differentmedications that diabetics take.
Some patients have other conditions, and the medication that they take can be for a number of reasons.
Other medications such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and nonsteroidals can cause dizziness.
Vestibular Dysfunction
Vertigo and dizziness are known symptoms of vestibular balance disorder.
This condition is more common as people age.
Individuals who have diabetes have an increased risk of vestibular dysfunction.
It is important to speak with your healthcare professional to understand the condition and get proper treatment.
Treatment and Prevention
To manage diabetes, it is important to work closely with your healthcare provider.
Eat healthy, exercise as recommended, and take your prescribed medication.
Also be aware that several conditions that can cause dizziness are related to diabetes.
Monitoring blood sugar, diet, and food consumption are helpful factors.
Continued conversations with your healthcare provider will help you manage your health the best way possible.
A Word From Verywell
Dizziness can be a scary experience.
If you do experience dizziness, dont panic.
The best thing to do is to take a stab at get into a safe position to avoid falling.
From there you could call someone to help you if you feel that you need assistance.
John Hopkins Health.Diabetes and high blood pressure.
Hillson R.Dizziness in diabetes.Pract Diab.
2018;35(2):41-42. doi:10.1002/pdi.2158
John Hopkins Medicine.Vestibular balance disorder.
