Many people with diabetes suffer from fatigue. Fatigue is when a person feels extremely tired or exhausted. Sleeping doesn’t change the way they feel. Dealing with fatigue can be quite difficult because it affects the person’s ability to complete daily tasks, engages in activities they enjoy, and impacts their quality of living. If your aging parent is diabetic, understanding how they might be affected by fatigue and what causes it can help you to manage the problem.
How Fatigue Affects Diabetics
- Fatigue can cause different responses in people, but common symptoms of fatigue are:
- Feeling like they have no energy.
- Trouble completing tasks, even easy ones.
- Being depressed or feeling down.
When people are fatigued, they may not feel up to spending time with family or friends. It can also cause them to spend too much time in bed or alone because it’s less exhausting. They may not have the energy to enjoy favorite activities or hobbies. All these things can impact their quality of living.
In some cases, fatigue may even be dangerous. If your parent still drives, fatigue could cause them to nod off at the wheel.
Causes of Diabetes Fatigue
The main cause of diabetes fatigue is not keeping blood sugar levels under control. When blood sugar levels are too high, it can cause circulation to slow down. Cells don’t get enough oxygen and nutrients and leave the diabetic feeling groggy. Some diabetics say the feeling is so severe that they feel “drugged.” High blood sugar levels can also cause fatigue because of inflammation. Too much sugar can make blood vessels inflamed and send monocytes into the brain, which causes a sleepy feeling.
Low blood sugar levels can also cause fatigue because there isn’t enough glucose in the blood to supply energy.
Other Causes of Fatigue
If your parent is feeling fatigued, don’t automatically assume it’s due to their diabetes. There are many other conditions that can cause fatigue, including:
- Anemia.
- Cancer.
- Depression.
- Chronic fatigue syndrome.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Low testosterone levels.
- Infections.
- Side effects of medications.
Report fatigue to your parent’s doctor and ask that they are screened for other conditions that may be causing the problem.
Fortunately, there are many ways to manage fatigue at home, and elder care can help. An elder care provider can make sure your parent doesn’t do too much. Eldercare providers can assist with cleaning, laundry, and other household tasks. Elder care providers can also ensure your parent eats a healthy diet by cooking balanced meals for them.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Elder Care in Santa Monica, CA, please call Mom's Home Care and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Our number is 323-244-4789
