Do you constantly feel thirsty, tired, and irritable? Cherry on top, you feel a rollercoaster of energy levels, mood swings, and unexplained weight changes? That’s what diabetes in women can make you feel like.
It is the unfortunate reality of millions of women living with diabetes. It is a complex condition that affects both men and women. However, it manifests and impacts health differently in both genders.
Let’s discuss how diabetes in women differs from that in men, what it feels like, and its symptoms. Moreover, we will discuss practical tips for managing diabetes in women effectively.
Table of Contents
What are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Women?
To understand diabetes, you should know how the blood sugar spikes work in the body.
Diabetes is a condition where you have elevated levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. When blood sugar spikes occur, you may feel a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:
Excessive Thirst and Frequent Urination
High blood sugar levels can make you incredibly thirsty, causing you to drink more water and urinate more frequently.
Fatigue
Consistently elevated blood sugar levels can leave you feeling tired and lethargic.
Irritability
Fluctuations in blood sugar can affect mood, leading to irritability and mood swings.
Unexplained Weight Changes
Some women with diabetes may experience weight loss despite increased hunger, while others may gain weight due to insulin resistance.
Let’s understand the specific symptoms of diabetes in women.
What are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Women?
While diabetes symptoms can overlap between genders, women may experience specific symptoms more prominently or differently.
You must recognize these signs early to seek timely medical attention:
Yeast Infections
Women with diabetes are more prone to yeast infections due to elevated blood sugar levels, which provide an ideal environment for yeast to thrive.
Symptoms include itching, burning, and discharge.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Women are at a higher risk of urinary tract infections, and diabetes can increase this susceptibility.
Frequent urination associated with diabetes can also contribute to UTIs.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is more common among women with diabetes. It manifests itself with irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and hormonal imbalances.
Increased Risk of Gestational Diabetes
Pregnant women may develop gestational diabetes, a temporary form of diabetes. It can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and for the baby.
How Diabetes in Women is Different than Men?
Let’s understand how diabetes in women differs from men, focusing on these aspects:
Women Have More Heart Disease Risk Than Men
Women with diabetes face a higher risk of heart disease than diabetic men. This increased risk is partially due to hormonal factors.
Estrogen, present in higher amounts in premenopausal women, is believed to have a protective effect on the cardiovascular system.
However, diabetes can alter this balance.
Why?
- High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries). It can lead to heart disease.
- Diabetes can disrupt the balance of lipids (fats) in the blood, increasing levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and decreasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, which is especially concerning for women.
- Hormonal changes during menopause can exacerbate these risks, as estrogen’s protective effect diminishes.
Here’s how women can manage heart health to lessen the risk of diabetes:
- Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.
- Monitor cholesterol levels and blood pressure regularly.
- Discuss hormone replacement therapy and other heart-protective measures with your healthcare provider during menopause.
Suggested Read: How to Flatten Blood Sugar Spikes After Meals?
Women are More at Risk for Urinary Tract Infections
As mentioned earlier, women with diabetes are more susceptible to urinary tract infections. The reasons behind this heightened risk are multifaceted:
Why?
- High blood sugar levels can provide a favorable environment for bacteria to multiply in the urinary tract.
- Frequent urination associated with diabetes can increase the chances of introducing bacteria into the urinary tract.
Here’s how women can manage UTI risk:
- Maintain good hygiene practices, especially in the genital area.
- Stay well-hydrated to flush out potential bacteria.
- Urinate whenever you feel the need.
- Control blood sugar levels through medication and lifestyle adjustments.
Hormone Cycles Can Change Women’s Response to Insulin
Women’s hormonal fluctuations throughout their menstrual cycle can impact insulin sensitivity.
Understanding these variations can be crucial for managing diabetes effectively.
Here’s how hormonal cycles can affect insulin sensitivity:
- Menstrual Cycle: In the days leading up to menstruation, some women may experience insulin resistance, making blood sugar levels harder to control. It is due to changes in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, insulin needs may increase significantly. Gestational diabetes can develop, requiring careful monitoring and management.
- Menopause: As women enter menopause, hormonal changes can impact blood sugar control. Estrogen loss can lead to increased insulin resistance.
Women should follow a general guideline to manage insulin sensitivity throughout hormonal changes. Here’s how you can do that:
- Monitor blood sugar levels regularly and adjust medication as needed.
- Work with a healthcare provider to create a customized diabetes management plan that considers hormonal fluctuations.
- Focus on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management to help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Managing Diabetes in Women: Tips and Lifestyle Strategies
Now that we’ve explored the unique aspects of diabetes in women. Let’s discuss practical strategies for managing this condition effectively:
Healthy Eating
Adopt a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Monitor carbohydrate intake and be mindful of portion sizes.
Regular Physical Activity
Engage in regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity and overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Medication
Follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding medication and insulin therapy. Ensure you understand proper dosing and administration techniques.
Blood Sugar Monitoring
Keep track of your blood sugar levels as advised by your healthcare provider. It will help you make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Stress Management
High-stress levels can impact blood sugar control.
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga.
Regular Check-ups
Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare team to monitor your diabetes. Address any concerns or complications promptly.
Doctor Recommendation: Dr. Aamir Rashid is one of the leading family physicians in Rawalpindi. He has an experience of over 26 years diagnosing and treating many diseases and disorders.
When to Consult a Doctor?
Diabetes is a complex and challenging condition, especially for women.
Understanding the unique aspects of diabetes in women, such as the increased risk of heart disease, susceptibility to urinary tract infections, and the influence of hormonal cycles on insulin sensitivity, is crucial for effective management.
However, if you feel your blood sugar spikes are uncontrollable, it’s recommended to consult a doctor immediately.
Reach out to a qualified general physician via Healthwire.
