Living with diabetes involves more than just monitoring blood sugar and taking insulin. For many people, diabetes can also lead to various digestive problems. These issues are common because high blood sugar levels over time can affect the nerves that control the digestive system. While these symptoms can be frustrating, understanding how they work is the first step toward managing them and improving your quality of life.
Digestive Challenges
One of the most common problems is acid reflux, which can occur in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, often called GERD.. This happens when stomach acid flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach, causing a burning sensation.
Another significant (but much less common) condition is Gastroparesis, which literally means “stomach paralysis”. In a healthy body, the stomach muscles contract to move food into the small intestine. However, in people with gastroparesis, these muscles work too slowly or not at all. This is reported in less than 1 in 20 people with diabetes. People who are affected have symptoms like:
● Feeling full very quickly after starting a meal.
● Nausea and vomiting.
● Bloating and stomach pain.
Why It Matters for Blood Sugar
Digestive issues don’t just cause physical discomfort; they also make it harder to control blood sugar. If the stomach takes too long to empty, the glucose from food enters the bloodstream at unpredictable times. This can lead to blood sugar spikes or dangerous “lows” if your insulin starts working before the food has actually been digested.
Seeking Help
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to talk to your healthcare team. They may refer you to a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in the digestive system. Early recognition and treatment can help you feel better and keep your diabetes management on track.
About the author
Kathryn Woodman
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