Diabetes and Breathing

by DrGary under Diabetes Symptoms

There are a number of different breathing problems which are associated with diabetes. Diabetes and breathing problems, first of all can be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis. When ketoacidosis takes effect, one of the first signs is normally deep rapid breathing or breathing difficulty when lying down. Other symptoms include:

Dry skin and mouth
A flushed face
Fruity smelling breath
Nausea and vomiting
Decreased appetite
Decreased consciousness
Muscle stiffness or aches
Fatigue

If these symptoms are noticed, particularly if the person has type-1 diabetes, emergency treatment should be sought. This is a very serious condition which can lead to diabetic coma or death. Treatment is centered on correcting the high blood sugar level with insulin and replacing any lost fluids.

Diabetes and Breathing Problems

There are a number of other causes of breathing difficulties related to diabetes. These can be brought about by cardiovascular problems, emotions, or injury. According to RightDiagnosis.com they include:

Angina
Atherosclerosis
Cardiovascular disease
Depression
Heart attack
Heart block
Heart disease
Heart failure
Hypertension
Melioidosis
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Myocardial infarction
Stroke
Tuberculosis

Some breathing problems may also be brought about by emotional conditions such as anger, anxiety, or fear. No matter what the suspected causes of your diabetes breathing problems, the matter should not be taken lightly. Respiratory symptoms can be due to serious diseases and the failure to seek treatment can result in permanent damage or serious complications.

Proper diagnosis should be sought as soon as possible so that proper treatment can take place. Until treatment is recieved, you should monitor the condition carefully to ensure that it is not getting worse, and of course avoid any activities that will make this problem worse such as smoking and exercising.

In order to correctly diagnosis your diabetes and breathing problems, your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. According to LocalHealth.com these questions will be:

When did you first notice your respiratory symptoms?
When do you feel respiratory symptoms?
Do you have any other symptoms?
What medications are you taking?
Do you have any allergies?

Diabetes and breathing problems can sometimes be life-threatening. If you feel that any of the following may be the cause of your diabetes and breathing problems, you should be evaluated in an emergency setting immediately. They are: