When you're a diabetic, getting dizzy can indicate a number of health concerns. Dizziness may indicate low blood pressure, hypoglycemia or other unrelated medical conditions. It's important to take care of yourself and have your diabetes under control. If you are diabetic and begin to experience dizziness, get prompt medical treatment.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia means your blood sugar is too low. Your blood glucose level can drop and get too low for a number of reasons such as medications, increased physical activity, skipping a meal or having a very small meal and drinking alcoholic beverages. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, sweating, hunger, headache, pale skin, shakiness, short attention span, confusion and clumsy or jerky movements. Hypoglycemia can be prevented by taking recommended medications at recommended times, eating adequate, nutritious meals at regular intervals on a daily basis, avoiding alcohol and by regularly monitoring glucose levels.
Blood Pressure
There may come a point during your diabetes when you are unable to maintain a healthy blood pressure. Some diabetics experience what is known as postural dizziness, which only occurs when you stand up. Postural dizziness is a result of a major drop in your blood pressure that happens as you are moving from a sitting to a standing position. Postural dizziness is very serious and should not be brushed off or explained away. You can experience postural dizziness due to certain medications, obstruction of blood vessels or abnormal function of the nerves that regulate your blood vessels and heart. There are a variety of ways to treat postural dizziness; ask your doctor which is best for you.
Ear Infections
Diabetics can also experience dizziness due to other medical conditions such as ear infections and diseases of the middle ear, such as Meniere's disease. Ear infections and diseases can cause vertigo, nausea, vomiting, inner ear pain and headaches. Ear infections can become worse if they are not treated promptly, and can even impair your hearing.
Considerations
If you're unsure as to why you're experiencing dizziness, see your doctor right away. Your doctor may be able to prescribe medication to help regulate your blood pressure and may be able to help teach you how to adjust your diabetic medication on your own to avoid low drops in your glucose levels. Speak to a qualified dietitian or nutritionist about preparing healthy, nutritious meals and snacks if your diet seems to be a problem with your diabetes.
