People who have diabetes always wonder what is the connection between diabetes and sleep. Yes, there is a connection between them. It can affect our blood sugar levels, as well as our blood glucose control, can t affect our sleep. Difficulty getting a good night’s rest could be a result of a number of reasons, from hypos at night, to high blood sugars or maybe signs of neuropathy.
Trouble sleeping from high sugar levels
On one hand, high blood sugar levels, hyperglycemia can have a negative impact on your sleep. The high levels make it less comfortable for you during the night. Sometimes you may feel too warm or irritable and unsettled.
Another factor when your blood sugar levels are high, you need to go to the toilet during the night. People who face with regularly high blood sugar levels at night feel frustrated because they can’t rest and feel tired the next day.
Trouble sleeping from low sugar levels
On the other hand, low blood glucose levels, hypoglycemia, can have a negative impact on your sleep as well. If you are taking insulin or other blood sugar medication, you may be at risk of low blood glucose levels during the night.
Low blood sugar levels overnight can disrupt your sleep pattern. Moreover, it can lead to difficulty waking in the morning and tiredness through the day.
Nighttime hypoglycemia can be noticeable. For example, when I face with hypoglycemia, I always wake up sweating. If you are experiencing night time hypos, it is important to talk with your doctor.
Getting a good night’s sleep
If you want to have a good night’s sleep, it is very important to do the following things:
- Keep your blood glucose under control
- Ensure your room is cool (around 18 degrees Celcius) and well ventilated
- Incorporating a period of exercise into each day
- Stick to a regular bedtime.
Last, but not least, I would recommend it to check the website of SleepHere.Org. They have created a list of additional resources about diabetes and sleep that you might find useful.
