She Strengthens

The Hidden Connection Between Diabetes and Headaches

The Surprising Symptom of Unmanaged Diabetes

When it comes to diabetes, most people are aware of the classic symptoms like extreme thirst and frequent urination. However, did you know that headaches can also be a sign of unmanaged diabetes? It’s true, and it’s not just a minor annoyance – it can be a sign that your blood sugar levels are out of whack.

The Culprits Behind Diabetes-Related Headaches

So, how do blood sugar levels lead to head pain? Let’s take a closer look. Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, occurs when your blood glucose levels drop below where they need to be. This can happen if you skip a meal or inject too much insulin. On the other hand, high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, occurs when your blood glucose levels get too high – usually above 180 mg/dL or 10 mmol/L.

The Difference Between Low and High Blood Sugar Headaches

Low blood sugar headaches tend to come on quickly as your blood sugar takes a nosedive. The brain needs a steady supply of glucose to function, and if you don’t have enough glucose in your bloodstream, you can end up with a throbbing headache. High blood sugar headaches, on the other hand, tend to develop slowly over a few days or weeks. As your blood glucose levels continue to rise, you might notice that your headache gets worse and worse.

Identifying the Cause of Your Headache

If you’re experiencing frequent headaches, try keeping a journal to track when and what you eat, as well as your headache symptoms. This can help you piece together what’s causing the problem and how to fix it. Don’t forget to keep your healthcare provider in the loop – they can help you manage your headaches and your diabetes.

Finding Relief from Diabetes-Related Headaches

So, what can you do to find relief from these pesky headaches? First, check your blood sugar levels. If they’re below target range, try having 15 to 20 grams of fast-acting carbs like glucose tablets or gel, juice, regular soda, or sugary candy. If your blood sugar is above target range, you may need to adjust your insulin levels or take a supplement of short-acting insulin. You can also try taking an OTC pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help ease the pain.

Preventing Future Headaches

To keep headaches at bay, it’s essential to manage your blood sugar levels. Aim to keep your blood sugar between 80 and 130 mg/dL (4.4 and 7.2 mmol/L) before meals and below 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L) 2 hours after meals. Eat a balanced diet filled with foods that can help control your blood sugar, like fatty fish, leafy green veggies, Greek yogurt, and eggs. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and identify potential triggers that may be causing your headaches.

The Bottom Line

Both low and high blood sugar can trigger severe headaches in people with diabetes, but there are ways to cope. Managing your blood glucose levels is the best way to get rid of the pain – and keep it from coming back. Keep your healthcare provider in the loop, and remember, extreme blood sugar swings can be life-threatening. Take control of your diabetes and your headaches today!