Nausea (feeling sick) is something just about everyone experiences at some time or another. For example, you may have eaten something that didn’t agree with you, have a tummy bug, or are in the throes of a migraine. But nausea can also point toward more serious issues.  Can Type 2 diabetes cause nausea? It certainly can, and without a doctor’s help, it may be hard to pinpoint exactly why you’re experiencing nausea. It could be a matter of passing discomfort, or it can be a sign that something much more serious is going on.

So, what do you need to know about nausea and Type 2 diabetes? And if you’re worried that you may have undiagnosed diabetes, is nausea a symptom of Type 2 diabetes? Although we strongly recommend that you do not attempt self-diagnosis, understanding the possible links between Type 2 diabetes and nausea can help you to know when to reach out for help. Here’s what you need to know.

Nausea as a Symptom of Type 2 Diabetes

You should see a doctor if you’re experiencing recurring nausea and have no idea why. It can be a symptom of Type 2 diabetes, or it could indicate other health issues. Don’t take unnecessary risks. If you have persistent symptoms, get help and tell your doctor about any other symptoms you may have been experiencing.

Causes of Nausea in Type 2 Diabetes

Already diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes? Let’s examine the reasons why you might feel nauseous. Remember, this information does not replace your doctor’s advice!

Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia

Managing your Type 2 diabetes is all about achieving balance and the two situations you want to avoid are blood sugar levels that are too low (hypoglycemia) or too high (hyperglycemia). Nausea can be a symptom of either of these.

You can limit your chances of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia by:

  • Seeing your doctor as scheduled or when you experience symptoms that could be a sign of trouble
  • Following your treatment plan closely
  • Following advice on what to do when your activity levels are higher or lower than usual
  • Eat at regular intervals and never skip meals

Nausea as a Side Effect of Diabetes Medications

Metformin is a frequently prescribed diabetes medication that should be taken with meals to prevent or reduce the possibility of feeling nauseous after you use it.

If you’ve just started using injectables to help manage your diabetes, nausea is a possible side effect, but you should get used to the new medication quite quickly.

If you don’t seem to be adjusting well to your meds, consult your doctor. It may be necessary to rethink your treatment plan.

Gastroparesis as a Cause of Nausea in Diabetes

About 9.3 percent of people living with diabetes experience gastroparesis. It means that the stomach doesn’t contract normally and doesn’t empty into the small intestine as rapidly as it should.

If you have gastroparesis, you may notice that you feel full after eating very small meals; struggle to balance your blood sugar levels; feel bloated; have heartburn or upper abdominal pain; or don’t feel hungry.

If you think that you may have gastroparesis, talk to your doctor - it might be necessary to adjust your medication schedules. Gastroparesis can be a sign that your blood sugar levels tend to be too high and may be causing autonomic neuropathy. Apart from working with your doctor, you can adopt a few habits that may help to reduce your discomfort.

  • Don’t lie down for a few hours after eating
  • Take a walk after meals
  • Drink water at mealtimes and between meals
  • Eat smaller meals more frequently
  • Reduce your intake of dietary fibre

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

People living with Type 1 diabetes are at greater risk of diabetic ketoacidosis than people with Type 2 diabetes. However, it can occur, and although it’s rare, it’s a life-threatening condition you should be aware of.

Diabetic ketoacidosis is associated with very high blood sugar levels. Ketones accumulate, reaching dangerous levels. Symptoms include:

If there is any reason to suspect diabetic ketoacidosis, treat it as a medical emergency.

Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)

High blood pressure is more common among people living with Type 2 diabetes than low blood pressure, but it can’t be ruled out. For example, if you’ve been experiencing polyuria (frequent urination) owing to overly high blood glucose levels, you may be dehydrated. That can lower your blood pressure to the point where you feel dizzy and nauseous.

Side effects from certain medications and damage to your autonomic nervous system can also cause low blood pressure. Whatever the reason, you’ll know something is wrong. Consult your doctor to get a proper diagnosis.

Nausea and Type 2 Diabetes: When to See a Doctor

Everybody feels a little nauseous from time to time, but if your symptoms are sustained or severe, you really should see your doctor quickly. For example, if you aren’t keeping food and water down, or are experiencing pain, fever, and nausea, consulting a doctor is always a sensible thing to do.

As a person with Type 2 diabetes, you should also familiarise yourself and your family with the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis and be ready to go for emergency help if it’s suspected.

If you know that your blood sugar levels have been fluctuating despite your best efforts, you shouldn’t wait for nausea to send you to the doctor. Good Type 2 diabetes management isn’t just a matter of short-term well-being - it’s also important to your long-term health.

Finally, it’s important to recognise that nausea is a symptom of other issues. You can treat the symptom with over-the-counter medications, but if you are experiencing recurrent nausea, you’ll need your doctor’s help to figure out why this is happening.

Type 2 Diabetes: Take Control of Your Health and Your Future

There are so many things that can go wrong when you have Type 2 diabetes that you might be feeling rather daunted. But there’s an important - and positive message for you in all this. Achieving good Type 2 diabetes management isn’t just about feeling better right now. It’s also about your long-term health - and you can take control of that, achieving a better present and future as your reward.

There will be some lifestyle changes to make, and your family’s support will be a big help. They’ll be eager to contribute to your health and happiness, so get your support system working.

On the other side of the coin, you also support your family better when you maintain optimal health despite your diabetes. But the unexpected can happen, and you may be more aware of the fact that you won’t always be around to help them in return.  

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Find out more about Blueberry Life's life insurance for people with chronic conditions and fill in our application form. With worry out of the way, you can focus on your wellness - and we know that your commitment to better health will pay dividends.

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Reviewed by Dr. Kingshuk Pal