Health experts are raising alarms over a seemingly minor nighttime issue that could serve as an early warning sign for a serious medical condition, diabetes. Disrupted or irregular sleep patterns, according to specialists, may be a red flag for individuals at risk of or currently living with the disease.
Diabetes, a chronic condition marked by elevated blood sugar levels, can lead to severe long-term health complications, including nerve damage, kidney issues, infections, and cardiovascular disease. In the U.S. alone, approximately 38 million people live with the condition, with many more likely remaining undiagnosed.
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While typical symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue are widely recognized, experts stress that less obvious signs, like poor sleep, should not be ignored. According to Diabetes UK, fluctuations in blood sugar can significantly interfere with sleep quality, creating a vicious cycle that exacerbates symptoms and makes diabetes harder to manage.
“Getting enough quality sleep is important for good health and wellbeing, but sleep problems can be common for people living with diabetes, and getting a good night’s rest can be easier said than done,” the organization states. “Changes in your blood sugar levels can play their part in disrupting sleep, and diabetes complications such as neuropathy (nerve damage) and foot pain can also make it hard to sleep.”
Both high and low blood sugar levels have the potential to disturb rest. Low blood sugar, or nocturnal hypoglycaemia, can particularly affect people with type 1 diabetes or those on insulin or glucose-lowering medications. “Low blood sugar… in the night can lead to reduced sleep quality,” the charity explains. Daytime drowsiness and long-term irregular sleep patterns may follow.
On the other hand, high blood sugar levels can also keep individuals up at night. “When blood sugar levels are high, it can increase the number of times you go to the toilet,” the charity notes. Additional symptoms like increased thirst and headaches can also contribute to fragmented sleep.
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Adding to the concern, a 2022 study published in Diabetes Care revealed a strong correlation between insomnia and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. “We estimated that an effective insomnia treatment could result in more glucose lowering than an equivalent intervention, which reduces body weight by 14kg,” said James Liu, senior research associate at Bristol Medical School.
To combat poor sleep, Diabetes UK recommends maintaining good sleep hygiene: avoid screens before bed, keep the room cool, ensure bedding comfort, exercise regularly, and minimize alcohol use at night.
If you’re experiencing sleep disruptions alongside other diabetes symptoms—such as blurred vision, unexplained weight loss, or frequent urination—it’s vital to consult a healthcare professional. Early detection and lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.
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