Thyroid disorders and diabetes are two of the most common conditions globally. Several health experts maintain that people living with diabetes may be at a higher risk of developing a thyroid disorder and vice versa.
Thyroid disfunction increases the risk of diabetes by affecting metabolism, insulin sensitivity and autoimmune processes. According to Dr. Vahid S. Bharmal, Consultant- Adult & Paediatric Endocrinologist, Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara, Gujarat, both Hypothyrodism and hyperthyroidism can increases the risk of hyperglycemia.
“Hypothyroidism slows metabolism, causes weight gain and increases insulin resistance. Paradoxically degradation of insulin is slowed in hypothyroidism and sensitivity to exogenous insulin may increase, so in pre-existing diabetes mellitus who develops hypothyroidism can develop hypoglycemia on same dose of medications or insulin. Hyperthyroidism increases insulin degradation and can cause hyperglycemia. There is also increased risk of developing type 1 diabetes in Autoimmune thyroid disease,” Dr. Bharmal told Financial Express.com.
Adopting a balanced lifestyle is necessary to reduce the risk of development of diabetes. Diet should be low in refined carbohydrates and high in fiber. Regular physical exercise and stress management is also necessary. Physical exercise should be aerobic and strength training. Exercise should be started slowly if thyroid is not controlled and should be build up gradually.
Regularly yearly monitoring of blood sugar is necessary if patient having thyroid disorder without diabetes for early detection of prediabetes and diabetes. Patient should watch for certain signs and symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, increased thirst, polyuria that suggest development of diabetes. If such symptoms develop patient should immediately undergo blood sugar checkup and thyroid function test, Dr. Bharmal said.