What do diabetes and shaking have to do with one another? Shaking is a common sign of low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia, and therefore diabetes and shaking, can occur in any type of diabetes. Hypoglycemic episodes can because by an overdose of insulin or diabetes tablets, by over-exercising, or by the consumption of alcohol.
Diabetes Shaking Hands
Diabetes and shaking hands can be brought about by a few different conditions, the first being hypoglycemia. If diabetes shaking hands is caused by hypoglycemia, then other symptoms such as fatigue, confusion, hunger, sweating, and dizziness are likely to manifest as well. According to LiveStrong.com, when hypoglycemia presents itself you should eat a carbohydrate-rich snack such as 4 oz. of fruit juice or soda, 1 tsp. of honey, or six pieces of candy. Afterwards, wait 15 minutes and re-test your blood sugars. Continue to do so until your blood glucose levels rise above 70 mg/dl.
Symptoms of diabetes and shaking may also be the result of diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage due to diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to involuntary movements in the hands due to trauma affected nerves. Diabetic neuropathy occurs as a result of years of blood sugar levels being too high. If you suspect diabetic neuropathy is the reason for your diabetes shaking symptoms, then try to keep your blood sugar levels from becoming too high to prevent further damage and speak with your doctor as soon as possible.
Is Shaking a Sign of Diabetes?
Shaking is sometimes one of the first signs of diabetes that is experienced. This is particularly true if the shaking occurs after heavy exercising or after skipping a meal. If you are at a high risk of developing diabetes, and you experience shaking that you feel may be linked to diabetes, then visit with your doctor as soon as possible for a diagnosis. The sooner you are diagnosed with diabetes, the less likely you are to develop complications such as diabetic neuropathy or heart disease later on. You are at a high risk of developing diabetes if:
- You are overweight or obese
- You have a parent or sibling with diabetes
- You live a sedentary lifestyle
- You have had gestational diabetes in the past
- You have had high fasting glucose levels in the past
- You are of African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Native Alaskan descent
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