Diabetes refers to a group of conditions that affects the way the body responds to sugar in the blood---glucose. Menopause, the end of a woman's menstrual cycle, may affect blood sugar levels and pose challenges for people with diabetes, according to the Mayo Clinic. An understanding of the common symptoms of menopause and diabetes may help women recognize need for medical or lifestyle changes and whether or not to seek a doctor's guidance.
Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are sporadic periods of excessive heat and sweating that usually develops around the head and neck. According to women's health expert Christiane Northrup, M.D., hot flashes are the most prevalent menopause symptoms, affecting 50 to 85 percent of women. Once women with diabetes reache menopause, hot flashes and night sweats, hot flashes that occur at night, may disturb sleep patterns and make managing blood sugar levels more difficult.
Weight Gain
Hormonal changes, depressive moods and reduced activity associated with menopause may lead to weight gain. According to the Mayo Clinic, women gain an average of one pound per year once they reach perimenopause---the time leading up to menopause. Weight gain in women with diabetes may affect blood sugar levels and increase required amounts of insulin or other diabetes medications.
Urinary Tract and Vaginal Infections
Diabetes and menopause can increase women's risk for urinary tract and vaginal infections. According to the Mayo Clinic, high blood sugar levels can cause these infections, even before menopause occurs. People with chronic high blood sugar and those who fail to manage blood sugar levels properly are at heightened risk. Reduced estrogen levels due to menopause can trigger bacterial growth and yeast production, further increasing a woman's risk for bladder and yeast infections.
Blood Sugar Imbalances
Irregular blood sugar levels are a primary symptom of diabetes. Initial symptoms of high blood sugar include excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurry vision and fatigue. Once blood sugar levels are managed through dietary, lifestyle, insulin and/or other medications, people with diabetes generally experience fewer blood sugar problems. According to the Mayo Clinic, hormonal changes caused by menopause can cause blood sugar fluctuations causing menopausal women with diabetes may find it more difficult to manage their blood sugar.
Emotional Symptoms
Menopause causes emotional symptoms in many women. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, hormonal shifts associated with menopause can cause mood swings, depression and emotional irritability. Sleep problems can exacerbate these symptoms. Blood sugar imbalances can also cause changes in mood.
Vaginal Dryness and Sexual Problems
Hormonal changes during menopause can also lead to vaginal dryness. The Mayo Clinic reports that diabetes can cause damage to nerves in the vaginal lining. When compounded by vaginal dryness due to menopause, nerve damage in the vagina may lead to pain during sex, reduced sexual arousal and difficulty reaching orgasm in diabetic women.
