Pregnancy can impose a significant strain on your body as you cater to the needs of both yourself and your growing baby. Unfortunately, the stress of pregnancy makes you vulnerable to conditions such as gestational diabetes. This condition can be a severe health issue if not taken care of properly. Fortunately, with the care and guidance of an experienced physician, you can manage gestational diabetes effectively so you experience the least amount of symptoms and remain as healthy as possible during pregnancy.
Effects of High Blood Sugar
Gestational diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects how the body uses glucose, the primary fuel used by cells. These cells require a hormone called insulin to be able to use glucose. During pregnancy, some women have increased insulin resistance, which means their bodies are unable to regulate insulin properly. As a result, glucose can accumulate in high levels in the blood.
During pregnancy, your body goes through a variety of changes. You will feel all sorts of symptoms, and it can be difficult pinpointing when a certain symptom is “normal” during pregnancy and when it’s caused by another health issue, such as gestational diabetes.
The symptoms of gestational diabetes are similar to symptoms of type 2 diabetes, which occurs independent of pregnancy and is also caused by insulin resistance. Let’s take a look at common symptoms of gestational diabetes that you should look out for.
Frequent Thirst
It can be normal for your daily water intake to change during your pregnancy. However, women with gestational diabetes may experience intense thirst very frequently. The thirst may persist even if you aren’t exercising or sweating heavily.
Aside from the direct sensation of thirst, you may find that your mouth feels dry often. The dryness can further increase your desire for water. This is a sign of gestational diabetes and should be discussed with your doctor.
Fatigue
Another symptom of gestational diabetes is persistent fatigue. You may feel tired for most of the day. The lethargy may persist even after you’ve rested and after you’ve eaten a meal. Similar to thirst, fatigue may appear even if you haven’t notably exerted physical effort.
Frequent Urination
Gestational diabetes tends to cause fluid imbalances. Your kidneys are more likely to let excess amounts of liquid pass into your urine. As a result, you may find yourself going to the restroom more often. You will notice yourself needing to visit the bathroom a lot more frequently than normal.
The increased urination can also dehydrate you, intensifying feelings of thirst.
Other Symptoms
Sometimes, women with gestational diabetes develop blurred vision. Cells that make up your eyes are highly sensitive to blood sugar levels, and excess sugar can interfere with their normal function.
Aside from tiredness, you may also feel nausea and lightheadedness as well as general feelings of unwellness.
Obstetric Care in Miami
If you experience any of these symptoms or have a family history of gestational diabetes, talk to a doctor about getting tested. The earlier you get diagnosed for gestational diabetes, the sooner you can set up a treatment and maintenance plan to control your blood sugar. This will not only limit the symptoms you feel, it will also ensure you and your baby remain healthy throughout the pregnancy.
The experts at Levin’s Women’s Health & Wellness Center treat all types of issues, including gestational diabetes. We have locations in Johnson & Wales University, Bal Harbour, and Miami Shores to ensure that our services are convenient to all patients.
We offer comprehensive diagnostics and treatments for all women – no matter what stage of life you are in. Call us now at (305) 981-0231 or use our online form to make an appointment.