Tips for Living with Type 2 Diabetes

Did you know that people with diabetes often have sleep problems? If your diabetes is uncontrolled, you may have to wake up several times in the middle of the night to drink water or urinate. This could be caused by high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia) or sleep apnea. If that’s the case, talk to your doctor about getting more control over your symptoms. One way to improve your quality of sleep is to establish a routine. Wake up at the same time every morning and go to bed at the same time every night. Also be sure to limit caffeine and alcohol in the afternoon and evening. Diabetes patients are also at greater risk for developing certain sleep disorders. Sleep apnea, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), and restless leg syndrome can also disrupt your sleep and are common in diabetes patients. Talk to your doctor if you’re having trouble sleeping through the night, especially if you wake up short of breath, sweaty or dizzy.