Restless Legs Syndrome: The Neuropathy Connection
Number six: legs that won’t stay still.
Mechanism: High blood sugar damages nerves (peripheral neuropathy), causing tingling and urges to move.
Safe strategy: Maintain steady glucose. Gentle evening stretches or warm baths help.
Pro tip: Cut caffeine after noon.
Nocturnal Hypoglycemia: The Hidden Midnight Crisis
This sneaky low can go unnoticed.
Risks: Confusion, seizures, or worse if untreated.
Fix: Bedtime snack with protein + carbs if levels are borderline. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) provide alerts.
Sleep Apnea: The Double Threat to Diabetes
Breathing pauses disrupt oxygen, worsening insulin resistance.
Story: Mark, 64, a truck driver from Ohio, snored loudly and felt exhausted. CPAP therapy + weight loss improved his A1C dramatically.
Tips: Side sleeping, weight management, avoid alcohol.
Nighttime Thirst and Frequent Urination (Nocturia)
Waking thirsty or to pee multiple times?
Cause: High blood sugar pulls fluid into urine.
Action: Monitor levels. Limit fluids after 7 PM. Control daytime intake.
Self-check: How many bathroom trips nightly? Above 2 is concerning.
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Nighttime Leg Cramps: A Painful Warning
Sudden, intense cramps disrupt sleep.
Why: Electrolyte imbalance or poor circulation from high glucose.
Relief: Hydrate, stretch calves pre-bed, ensure magnesium/potassium.
