Diabetes – how does it affect sleep and quality of life?

Diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of glucose in the blood. It is divided into two types, which have different causes, symptoms, and treatment methods. Diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as peripheral neuropathy, which is nerve damage.
 

Diabetes can also cause serious sleep difficulties, such as insomnia, as well as daytime sleepiness or unpleasant tingling or numbness in the legs. Disrupted sleep affects blood glucose levels, which can lead to serious complications of diabetes. This also affects the quality of life during the day, causing fatigue, irritability, or difficulty concentrating.
 

It is important for people with diabetes to pay attention to their sleep habits and be aware of the impact that the disease can have on their sleep and quality of life. Although it is still too often overlooked, proper sleep hygiene is undoubtedly a key element in fighting the disease. As a result, people with diabetes living in Western countries enjoy a much better quality of life and are more satisfied with it.

In modern medicine, two types of diabetes are distinguished - type 1 and type 2. They differ in the cause of excess glucose in the blood, as well as have different causes. Although their treatment also proceeds differently, lifestyle recommendations for both types of diabetes are almost the same.
 

Type 1 diabetes results from a lack or too small amount of insulin, a hormone produced mainly by beta cells of the pancreas. It is necessary to process the sugar in the blood into energy that the body uses for daily functioning.
 

It is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, although it can occur at any age. As a rule, type 1 diabetes requires patients to regularly take medication, primarily insulin, as well as rigorous control of blood glucose levels.
 

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of this disease. It results from insulin resistance or a significant lack of insulin. In the case of this type of diabetes, the body uses this hormone ineffectively, which leads to an elevated blood sugar level.
 

It often develops in adults, but in recent years, it has also begun to be diagnosed in children and adolescents. Its treatment usually includes lifestyle changes and medication. These are most often based on metformin, although new generation drugs based on sitagliptin, liraglutide, or dulaglutide are also emerging.

Diabetes is a metabolic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. That is why it is considered one of the civilization diseases. This is also due to the fact that it has various causes. Its development can be influenced by both genetic factors, lifestyle, and age. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, can help prevent diabetes or delay its onset in people with genetic predispositions.
 

Type 1 diabetes is usually the result of autoimmune damage to the pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for insulin production. As a result, cells in the body cannot effectively process glucose in the blood into energy. Without it, sugar accumulates in the blood and cells of the body, leading to hyperglycemia and very serious complications.
 

Although the causes of type 1 diabetes are not fully understood, it is often said that it is caused by genetic predispositions as well as environmental factors. It is often observed that genes responsible for this type of diabetes are activated during viral infections, especially in children.
 

Type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity and lack of physical activity. In this case, the body cannot effectively use insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes often develops in adults later in life, but in recent years, it has begun to be diagnosed in children and adolescents.
 

The causes of type 2 diabetes are usually related to improper dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and obesity. However, genetic factors also play a role in the development of the disease. Recently, attention has also been drawn to the fact that inflammatory states and oxidative stress can also cause it.
 

There are also other, less common causes of diabetes, such as pregnancy and gestational diabetes, as well as pancreatic diseases and other endocrine disorders. People with genetic predispositions are at a higher risk of developing diabetes. This also applies to people who are at risk, such as those who are overweight, elderly, and have low physical activity.
 

It is worth remembering that early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for preventing serious complications of diabetes and maintaining good health. Therefore, it is not worth underestimating even the early symptoms of diabetes. If you are at risk, you should undergo preventive examinations in this direction.

One of the most common complications of diabetes is diabetic polyneuropathy, which is nerve damage that manifests as numbness, tingling, and pain in the extremities. Diabetic polyneuropathy can lead to serious motor disorders and impaired sensation, which in turn increases the risk of injuries and complications, such as ulcers.
 

Diabetes can also cause diabetic foot, a condition in which excess sugar in the blood leads to damage to blood vessels and nerves in the foot. Diabetic foot can lead to serious complications, including ulcers, infections, and gangrene. In extreme cases, it may require limb amputation.
 

This disease also increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis. This is because it leads to damage to blood vessels, which increases the risk of plaque formation. The inner wall of the arteries is damaged, leading to the accumulation of cholesterol and other substances. As a result, this increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
 

There is also a link between diabetes and the risk of urinary tract diseases, primarily urinary tract infections and kidney disease. Diabetes affects blood flow to the kidneys and damages their structures, which in turn increases the risk of kidney complications. Therefore, people with diabetes should frequently undergo urine testing to check for the presence of glucose or protein.
 

Moreover, diabetes can also affect mental health, leading to mood disorders such as depression or dysthymia. People with diabetes often experience high levels of stress, which can negatively impact their quality of life. This can in turn cause physiological disturbances in hormone and neurotransmitter levels in their bodies. Therefore, it is recommended that people with diabetes seek the help of psychologists, and sometimes psychiatrists, at least in the early stages of the disease.
 

One of the most dangerous complications of diabetes is diabetic ketoacidosis, also known as DKA. DKA occurs when there is a significant and sudden lack of insulin in the body, which combines with a high concentration of glucose in the blood. It is a serious metabolic disorder that can lead to a critical state of health and even death if not diagnosed and treated in time.

The last of the most common complications of diabetes is diabetic retinopathy, which is an eye disease that causes damage to blood vessels in the retina of the eye. Diabetic retinopathy can lead to significant deterioration of vision and loss of the ability to read or drive. It is recommended that people with diabetes undergo regular eye exams, including a retinal examination, at least once a year.
 

All of these complications of diabetes are associated with metabolic disorders that lead to damage to tissues and organs in the body. Therefore, it is important for people with diabetes to take care of their health by following an appropriate diet and physical activity, and regularly seeing a doctor. It is also very important for them to maintain proper sleep conditions. This way, they can reduce the risk of complications and improve their quality of life.

Diabetes is a very complex disease that can affect sleep in many ways. This is primarily due to its effect on blood sugar levels, which can cause both stimulation and feelings of fatigue or weakness. As a result, the circadian rhythm of a person with diabetes may be disrupted, making it difficult to function during the day and negatively affecting both falling asleep and the stability of sleep.
 

Individuals with diabetes often experience night sweats, which can disrupt sleep structure and cause discomfort. Similarly, they may experience polyuria, which involves increased urination during the night. This also interrupts sleep, making it difficult to maintain proper hygiene and reducing the amount of deep sleep that is responsible for nighttime regeneration.
 

Therefore, it is crucial for people with diabetes to pay attention to their sleeping arrangements. Both the mattress and pillow should provide proper body support, which can help alleviate back, neck, and joint pain that often accompanies diabetes. Additionally, when choosing a mattress and pillow, it is essential to consider ventilation and moisture management, which can prevent sweating at night by maintaining optimal body temperature.
 

In some patients, diabetes is caused by sleep apnea, which is directly linked to snoring and cell oxygen deprivation. This type of breathing disorder causes pauses in breathing during sleep. Therefore, these individuals should pay particular attention to the type of pillow they choose to ensure it does not block their airways. Orthopedic pillows with an anatomical shape made of highly elastic foam with an open cell structure are the best option for them.
 

Furthermore, the skin of people with diabetes is often drier and more prone to cracking, making it harder to heal. Diabetes also weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of skin infections and making them more sensitive to allergens. Therefore, it is important to choose a mattress and pillow that provide the highest level of hygiene and ideal ventilation. Avoid mattresses with coconut or other supposedly natural and healthy fillings.

A properly designed high-elasticity mattress can also help individuals with diabetic polyneuropathy. This condition can cause tingling, numbness, and even pain in the limbs. By using an appropriate mattress, we can alleviate the discomfort and pain caused by it. This is due to its optimal adaptation to the shape of the body, as well as the limitation of excessive pressure on the nerves, which translates into proper blood flow. At the same time, unlike popular memory foam mattresses, it will keep the spine in the proper position and not interfere with the ability to move.

Therefore, we recommend the Osaka Air mattress with a firmness rating of 6.5 according to the American scale of mattress firmness for individuals with diabetes. Its layered construction, consisting mainly of high-elasticity foam, has been carefully designed with the help of doctors and physiotherapists. Additionally, the second layer of the mattress contains thermo-elastic foam, which allows for proper body contouring. The innovative Aero 3D mesh in the mattress provides additional comfort and a high level of ventilation.

The ONSEN® Osaka Air mattress is a universal mattress that is not only suitable for people with diabetes, but for all of us. It meets the needs of consumers by fulfilling all 10 basic functionalities of a mattress, and is also a first class medical device. In addition, like all ONSEN® products, it comes with a 15-year warranty and a 100-day return program, which minimizes the risk of purchase.

We also encourage you to explore other articles on the best sleep and health blog, as well as the Encyclopedia of Healthy Sleep prepared by the ONSEN® team of specialists. For those who care about spine health, we recommend a set of spine exercises prepared by our physiotherapist.

What are the symptoms of diabetes and its effects on health?

Symptoms of diabetes may vary depending on whether it is type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The most common symptoms include excessive thirst, increased urination, fatigue, weakness, dry mouth, blurred vision, slow wound healing, skin infections, and neuropathy. The effects of diabetes on health can be serious, as it can cause various heart diseases, kidney diseases, and strokes. People with diabetes are also more likely to experience vision problems, including macular degeneration.

What are the ways to control blood sugar levels?

The best way to control blood sugar levels is, of course, to regularly monitor the level of glucose in the blood. Maintaining a healthy level of blood sugar can be achieved through a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding alcohol and other substances. It is also important to regularly take medications prescribed by a doctor.

What are the best ways to deal with insomnia in diabetes?

In the case of insomnia related to diabetes, it is important to follow recommendations for a healthy lifestyle, especially regarding caffeine-containing drinks and meals. It is also helpful to avoid any stimulants that can cause excitement or emotional tension. Various relaxation techniques can be effective, such as mindfulness, yoga, or Tai Chi, and can be applied before bedtime. It is also crucial to regularly monitor blood sugar levels and follow your doctor's recommendations. In severe cases, pharmacotherapy may be necessary.

Does diabetes affect sleep, and what are the consequences?

Yes, diabetes affects sleep. People with diabetes often experience sleep disturbances, including insomnia. They may also have nightmares, excessive daytime sleepiness, or night sweats. Additionally, they may experience hypoglycemia during the night, leading to awakenings and difficulties falling back to sleep.

Can sleep apnea be a cause of diabetes?

Yes, sleep apnea is one of the risk factors for developing diabetes. Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder that causes interruptions in breathing during sleep. As a result, oxygen levels in the blood decrease, and carbon dioxide levels increase. This results in unstable blood glucose levels, which increases the risk of diabetes. Additionally, sleep apnea causes increased cortisol secretion, which can lead to insulin resistance, as well as obesity, both of which are also associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.