Thyroid Dysfunction Is A Big Risk For Diabetes — Know Why, And How To Manage It

Thyroid dysfunction, both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, increases the risk of diabetes due to metabolic and hormonal imbalances.

Knowledge of managing thyroid disorder is very important to reduce diabetes risk.

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Dr. Vahid S. Bharmal

Thyroid dysfunction is the biggest risk for diabetes. Its pathogenic mechanisms are related to the modulation of metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and autoimmune processes. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism lead to hyperglycemia through several mechanisms. Knowledge of managing thyroid disorder is hence very important to reduce the risk of diabetes.

What Is Hypothyroidism And How It Can Lead To Diabetes 

Hypothyroidism is the state of the thyroid gland when it is underactive, thus decreasing the metabolism, and increases predisposition to gain weight along with insulin resistance. Paradoxically, it slows down the degradation of insulin while increasing sensitivity to exogenous insulin. This makes an individual suffering from pre-existing diabetes suffer from hypoglycemia if their dose of medication or insulin stays the same.

Hyperthyroidism And Risk Of Diabetes

Hyperthyroidism accelerates metabolism and increases insulin degradation. It may lead to hyperglycemia. Autoimmune mechanisms through cross-reactivity also increase the risk for type 1 diabetes with autoimmune thyroid diseases.

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Lifestyle Interventions To Prevent Diabetes Risk

Healthy lifestyle is also a crucial prevention tool for diabetes among patients with thyroid disease. Lifestyle interventions include:

Food intake: One can keep blood sugar in control by having a diet low in carbohydrates and low in refined carbohydrates but rich in fibers.

Physical activity: Regular aerobic and strength exercises aid in proper blood sugar control. Patients should do low-intensity exercises, which they are to increase gradually over time in cases of uncontrollable thyroid diseases. Proper management of stress through meditation or even a similar area like yoga can have a massive role in keeping the patient's hormones and overall body in perfect condition.

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Monitoring And Early Detection

Even in the absence of diabetes, thyroid patients should have blood sugar checked. They should see a doctor once a year for early diagnosis of prediabetes or diabetes. The patient must also be on the lookout for signs and symptoms that might be related to diabetes, such as:

• Unintended weight loss
• Constant fatigue
• Increased thirst (polydipsia)
• Increased urination (polyuria)

In case any of these symptoms occur, blood sugar and thyroid function tests must be run promptly to diagnose the case and take proper measures for treatment. Patients with thyroid problems can prevent or at least reduce their chances of developing diabetes through balanced lifestyles, regular check-ups, and prompt responses to early signs and symptoms.

Dr. Vahid S. Bharmal is Consultant, Adult & Paediatric Endocrinologist, at Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara. 

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]