Diabetes And Blood Sugar Issues / Question
Published: July 8, 2009
Dear TeenHealthFX,
i feel nauseous almost all the time, and recently iv been getting dizzy. i have type one diabetes, and i started taking bit=rth control pills about two months ago, is there any obvious reason for these symptoms? i feel like being sick is ruining my life!
Signed: Have Type 1 Diabetes - Feeling Nauseous and Dizzy
Dear Have Type 1 Diabetes - Feeling Nauseous and Dizzy,
There are many medical and mental health issues that can contribute to a person feeling nauseous or dizzy. Conditions such as food poisoning, allergic reactions, heat exhaustion, drug allergies, generalized anxiety disorder and more can all cause these symptoms. FX does not know how soon after starting the pill you began to experience these symptoms, but nausea and dizziness can also be side effects from taking birth control pills.
Since you stated that you have type 1 diabetes, you should be aware that your symptoms could be associated with something called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a very serious condition that develops when cells in the body are unable to get the sugar (glucose) they need for energy. This can occur for diabetics who are not taking enough insulin. Without insulin the body cannot use sugar for energy. Subsequently the body begins to break down fat and muscle for energy producing ketones (fatty acids) that enter the bloodstream causing the chemical imbalance called DKA.
Symptoms of DKA:
· Flushed, hot, dry skin
· Blurred vision
· Feeling thirsty
· Drowsiness or difficulty waking up
· Rapid, deep breathing
· A strong fruity breath odor
· Loss of appetite, abdominal pain and vomiting
· Confusion
You are at risk for DKA if you have type 1 diabetes and do not take enough insulin, have a severe infection or other illness, or are dehydrated. Sometimes DKA is the first sign of diabetes. If a person had any reason to believe he/she has DKA, it is important to see a medical health professional as soon as possible as DKA can be a life-threatening condition.
Since there are many possibilities as to what could be causing your dizziness and nausea it is important that you meet with a medical health professional as soon as possible so he/she can determine the cause of your symptoms and provide whatever treatment is needed. Since you are diabetic, it is especially important for you to meet with a doctor ASAP in the event that you are not getting enough insulin and are experiencing symptoms of DKA.
If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-6475 for an appointment. You can also contact your local teen health center or call your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
At least 50% of sexually active men and women acquire genital HPV infection at some point in their lives.
