Blood Glucose Levels and Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism and Blood Sugar

Hypothyroidism is a medical condition that occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones are critical for regulating metabolism, the process of converting food into energy. When there is not enough thyroid hormones, metabolism slows down, and this can cause a range of symptoms.

Hypothyroidism can lead to both high and low blood sugar levels. Most often, it leads to elevated blood glucose. The mechanism behind this is that thyroid hormones help insulin, the hormone that regulates glucose levels in the blood, work more efficiently. When there are not enough thyroid hormones, insulin becomes less effective, proper glucose utpake becomes impaired and and glucose levels in the blood go up.

On the other hand, hypothyroidism can also cause low blood sugar levels, although this is less common. This happens because thyroid hormones help regulate the liver's production of glucose, which is the body's main source of energy. In hypothyroidism, the liver may not produce enough glucose, leading to low blood sugar levels.

Signs that Improper Blood Sugar Levels may be Due to Hypothyroidism

Often, it is essential to be able to tell between hypothyroidism-induced abnormal blood sugar levels and those caused by lifestyle, liver or pancreas issues.

Here are some symptoms of hypothyroidism that indicate abnormal blood sugar levels:

1. Fatigue

Fatigue is the most common symptom of hypothyroidism, and it can also be a sign of abnormal blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are low, the body does not have enough energy to function correctly, leading to fatigue.

2. Weight Gain

Unexplained weight gain is another symptom of hypothyroidism, which can indicate abnormal blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are imbalanced, it can lead to an increase in appetite, causing weight gain.

3. Increased Sensitivity to Cold

Hypothyroidism can cause an increase in sensitivity to cold. This symptom can also indicate abnormal blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are low, the body's ability to regulate temperature is compromised, leading to increased sensitivity to cold.

4. Dry Skin and Hair

Hypothyroidism can cause dry skin and hair, which can also be a sign of abnormal blood sugar levels. This happens because imbalanced blood sugar levels impair circulation, so causing dry skin and hair.

5. Depression and Mood Swings

Depression and mood swings are common symptoms of hypothyroidism, which can also indicate abnormal blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are imbalanced, it can affect the brain's ability to function correctly, leading to depression and mood swings.

Experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above along with abnormal blood sugar levels could be an indication of hypothyroidism. It is important to note that other factors can cause abnormal blood sugar levels, such as improper lifestyle choices or pancreas issues. Specifically, lifestyle choices such as a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, or smoking can lead to high blood sugar levels. Pancreas issues, such as pancreatic cancer or pancreatitis, can also cause abnormal blood sugar levels. It is essential to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

• Your healthcare provider may perform tests that check the functioning of your thyroid, liver and panreas, as these organs are involved in sugar metabolism, and eliminate tumors in them.
• The tests include a fasting blood sugar test, an oral glucose tolerance test, and a hemoglobin A1C test, hormone tests, including the test to determine if your thyroid hormone levels are within the normal range, blood test for cancer markers and ultrasound scans of the above lised organs.