What is dizziness?
Dizziness is a sensation of feeling lightheaded, faint, or unsteady. It can be a symptom of many different conditions, including diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin, which is a hormone that helps glucose (sugar) get from the blood into the cells.
How can diabetes cause dizziness?
There are a few different ways that diabetes can cause dizziness.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is a common cause of dizziness in people with diabetes. When blood sugar levels drop too low, the brain doesn’t get enough glucose to function properly, which can lead to dizziness, confusion, and even seizures.
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can also cause dizziness, although it is less common. When blood sugar levels are too high, the blood vessels can become damaged, which can lead to problems with blood flow to the brain. This can also cause dizziness.
- Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that damages the nerves, including the nerves that control balance. This can lead to dizziness, as well as other problems such as numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet.
How common is dizziness in people with diabetes?
Dizziness is a common symptom in people with diabetes. In fact, one study found that up to 50% of people with diabetes experience dizziness at some point.
What are the other symptoms of diabetes?
Dizziness is just one of many symptoms of diabetes. Other symptoms include:
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing sores
- Frequent infections
When should I see a doctor about dizziness?
You should see a doctor about dizziness if you have diabetes and you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Dizziness that is severe or does not go away
- Dizziness that is accompanied by other symptoms of diabetes, such as frequent urination, increased thirst, or unexplained weight loss
- Dizziness that is accompanied by other symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or confusion
How is dizziness treated?
The treatment for dizziness will depend on the underlying cause. If your dizziness is caused by low blood sugar, you will need to eat or drink something sugary to raise your blood sugar levels. If your dizziness is caused by high blood sugar, you will need to take insulin or other medication to lower your blood sugar levels. If your dizziness is caused by diabetic neuropathy, you may need to take medication to relieve the pain and numbness.
Can dizziness be prevented?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent dizziness if you have diabetes:
- Keep your blood sugar levels under control
- Eat a healthy diet
- Get regular exercise
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- See your doctor regularly
Conclusion
Dizziness is a common symptom in people with diabetes. It can be caused by low blood sugar, high blood sugar, or diabetic neuropathy. If you experience dizziness, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
