Over time, poor sleep can become a problem of its own.
There is also a complex relationship between sleep and blood sugar. Poor-quality sleep can affect hormones involved in appetite and glucose regulation, while diabetes-related symptoms can make restful sleep more difficult.
This is why persistent sleep disruption should not be dismissed as simply “getting older.”
5. Leg or Foot Cramps and Tingling
Some people with long-standing diabetes develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a type of nerve damage associated with prolonged high blood glucose.
It can cause burning, tingling, numbness, or pain, particularly in the feet and lower legs. Symptoms may become more noticeable at night when there are fewer distractions.
Muscle cramps, however, are not specific to diabetes. Dehydration, electrolyte abnormalities, medications, prolonged sitting, physical activity, and circulation problems can also contribute.
If nighttime tingling, burning, numbness, or pain keeps returning, it is worth getting evaluated rather than simply treating it as an ordinary cramp.
6. Itchy or Very Dry Skin
Persistent itching can sometimes occur when the skin becomes excessively dry, and people with diabetes may be more susceptible to dry skin.
High blood glucose can contribute to dehydration, while diabetes can also increase the risk of certain skin infections.
Nighttime itching can be particularly frustrating because it may interfere with sleep.
Still, itchy skin has an enormous number of possible causes, including eczema, allergies, medications, liver or kidney conditions, and environmental dryness.
The symptom becomes more meaningful when it appears alongside other possible signs of abnormal blood glucose.