The Hidden Link Between Thyroid and Diabetes

Dr.Monika Sharma, 2 mins read

Diabetes and thyroid disorders are two common conditions. Studies have shown that people with diabetes are more likely to have thyroid problems, and people with thyroid problems are at a higher risk of developing diabetes. This is because both conditions are related to how our body uses energy and hormones.

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of our neck. Though small, it plays a big role in our body. One of its most important functions is to control metabolism- (the process that turns food into energy). When the thyroid doesn’t work properly, it can affect many parts of the body, including how our body manages blood sugar.

In this blog, you can explore how thyroid problems affect blood sugar and diabetes.

Hyperthyroidism and Diabetes

Hyperthyroidism happens when our thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone. This speeds up our metabolism. It may sound good, but it actually causes problems. One of the main issues is insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that helps sugar (glucose) move from blood into cells to be used as energy.

When our body becomes resistant to insulin, the sugar stays in the blood, causing high blood sugar levels. If you already have diabetes, hyperthyroidism can make it harder to manage your blood sugar. You may need higher doses of insulin or other medications to keep your sugar under control.

Hypothyroidism and Diabetes

Hypothyroidism occus when the thyroid gland makes too little hormone, slowing down our metabolism. With a slower metabolism, insulin stays in our system longer than it should. This can lead to low blood sugar (called hypoglycemia).

For people with diabetes, this can be dangerous, especially if they are taking insulin or other medications that lower blood sugar. Symptoms of low blood sugar include dizziness, confusion, shaking, and even fainting. That’s why it is important to watch for signs and check your blood sugar regularly.

Why It Matters

If you have diabetes, it will be good if you get your thyroid checked regularly. And if you have thyroid problems, you should keep an eye on your blood sugar. Managing one condition can help you control the other. Doctors often test for thyroid function in people with diabetes, especially if blood sugar becomes hard to manage.

Conclusion

The thyroid and diabetes are closely linked. A problem with one can affect the other. By understanding this connection, you can take better care of your health. Regular check-ups, healthy eating, staying active, and taking your medications on time can help keep both your thyroid and blood sugar in balance. If you have any questions regarding thyroid and diabetes related problems, you can consult our endocrinologist expert at Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka.