The interconnection between Hashimoto's & Diabetes- Is There Any Hidden Bond?

• Written by Bhawika Khushlani

  Reviewed by Munmi Sharma

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Is your body sending you mixed signals? Don’t ignore it!

If you are juggling thyroid issues along with spiking blood sugar levels, then it is surely not a coincidence. Hashimoto’s and diabetes, especially Type 1 diabetes, have a hidden relationship that you might not be aware of. These two autoimmune diseases might walk hand-in-hand in your body without raising a slight doubt. 

And this might turn out to be a big complication in the future if not diagnosed in time. 

Therefore, here is a detailed guide for Hashimoto's and diabetes, including symptoms, risk factors, and the interconnection between the two. Also, there are a few bonus tips to empower these diseases and take control of your health journey. 

What is Hashimoto’s Disease?

Hashimoto’s disease or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that, over time, starts damaging the cells of the thyroid gland. The disease gives birth to antibodies and turns the body’s immune system against itself, which affects hormone production and leads to hypothyroidism. Hashimoto’s disease is more prevalent in middle-aged women and individuals with a thyroid history in the family. 

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a lifelong condition caused by high blood sugar levels. Our body derives blood glucose from food and converts it into energy for proper body functioning. In this process, a pancreatic hormone, also known as Insulin, plays a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels. Due to insulin deficiency, glucose levels remain high in the blood, leading to diabetes mellitus. There is no permanent treatment for diabetes; proper medication, diet, lifestyle changes, and regular exercise can manage it.

Is there Any Interconnection Between Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Diabetes?

Yes, if a person is diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, then there is a higher risk of developing diabetes, too, particularly type 1 diabetes. And the same case goes for diabetes. Both are autoimmune diseases and require regular screening for proper treatment. To dig deeper into the relationship between Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Diabetes, take a look at the details:

Hashimoto's and Type 1 diabetes: 

People with Type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of developing Hashimoto’s disease, especially in females. According to studies, one in four people with Type 1 diabetes will eventually develop Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. On the other hand, People with low thyroid hormones have more cravings for sugar and carbohydrate-rich food, excess consumption of which can lead to Hashimoto's thyroiditis. So, yes, there is a strong connection between Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Type 1 Diabetes. 

Hashimoto's and Type 2 diabetes:

There are many connections between Hashimoto's and type 2 diabetes, including blood sugar levels and insulin. If Hashimoto's thyroid condition gets worse, it will lead to hypothyroidism. It can adversely affect the capacity of the thyroid gland to produce hormones, resulting in poor metabolic functioning, including blood sugar levels. If blood sugar levels aren’t effectively converted into blood glucose energy, it will eventually increase the risk of diabetes. 

Moreover, as hypothyroidism can decrease glucose absorption, it will result in excessive sugar accumulation, eventually leading to insulin resistance and, in the end, developing Type 2 diabetes. 

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Diabetes Types

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Types:

There are two primary forms:

• Goitrous Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Patients with this type of thyroid experience enlarged (goitre), which is usually firm and doesn’t feel painful but has an irregular surface. 
• Atrophic Autoimmune Thyroiditis: In this case, the patient experiences a decrease in thyroid gland size, which is also called primary myxedema.

Diabetes Types:

There are four major types of diabetes:

• Prediabetes: Prediabetes is a warning sign of slightly higher blood sugar levels, and it's time to apply sugar control in your diet, followed by specific exercise. If it gets worse, there will be a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease more prevalent in children and adolescents. Various factors, including genetics, can cause it. This condition occurs when the immune system worsens the pancreas's insulin production capacity. It is not curable, and patients need to take regular insulin shots. 
• Type 2 Diabetes: It is the most common type of diabetes in which the body starts to produce less insulin than the body requires. Type 2 diabetes can be diagnosed at any age. There could be many reasons for this type of diabetes, such as obesity, genetics, and an unhealthy lifestyle.
• Gestational Diabetes: It is most common in pregnant women and usually goes away on its own after delivery. It may be caused by higher blood glucose levels, which can affect both the mother and fetus, so proper monitoring and treatment are advised to avoid complications. 

Symptoms: Hashimoto's Type 1 Diabetes

Here are some common symptoms to look for in both diseases: 

Hashimoto’s Disease:

• Muscle aches
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Slow heart rate

Diabetes:

• Blurry vision
• Frequent urination
• Dry mouth
• Increased thirst
• Extreme hunger
• Slow healing of wounds
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

Risk Factors in Hashimoto's and Diabetes

Read carefully these crucial factors which can increase the risk of being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease and diabetes. 

Hashimoto’s:

• Women are more likely to develop Hashimoto's disease than men.
• It is more prevalent in the ages of 30 to 50.
• Genetics and family history
• Other Autoimmune diseases increase the risk of developing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
• Excessive Iodine intake
• Radiation exposure 
• Certain medications like lithium

Diabetes:

• Being overweight or obese can lead to diabetes.
• Lack of regular physical activity
• Unhealthy diet
• Excessive and regular smoking
• High blood pressure
• Family history of diabetes
• Prediabetes

Tips to Lower The Risk of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Diabetes

Due to a strong genetic component, the risk of being diagnosed with these two autoimmune diseases is higher. But with some tips, you can avoid the risk to an extent. Take a look!

• Maintaining a healthy diet packed with green vegetables, proteins, and seasonal fruits.
• Stop relying on junk food, including meals made with highly refined wheat and carbohydrates, such as Pizza, pasta, ice cream, Noodles, fries, burgers, and sweets.
• Avoid eating trans fats.
• Monitor your weight and include some physical exercises in your daily lifestyle to eliminate conditions like being overweight or obese.

Suffering from Diabetes and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis? This Section is For You:

Suffering from the two autoimmune diseases can affect your lifestyle and mental health adversely. But, no worries because with some precaution, these two can be managed without causing any significant complications. Here are some suggestions:

• Diet: You can manage your body's thyroid glands and sugar levels with a balanced diet and healthy fats and proteins. 
• Exercise: Consult your doctor for the intensity and duration of the physical exercise. 
• Sleep: Do not let stress keep you awake. 7-9 hours of quality sleep must provide proper rest to your body and fight diseases efficiently. 
• Medication: Regular check-ups and proper medication management will help you manage both conditions simultaneously. 
• Monitoring: Monitor your blood sugar levels, blood tests, and medication results to determine whether the direction of your treatment is correct.
• Hydration: Hydration is an important key. Sufficient water intake will help your kidneys flush out excess sugar and infection from the body.
• No Stress: Don’t let stress win the battle after all the hassle. You can incorporate various stress management techniques, such as yoga and meditation. 

Hashimoto’s Disease and Diabetes: Final Thoughts!!

Hashimoto’s disease and diabetes are both autoimmune diseases which turn our immune system against our own body. Managing dual conditions can be overwhelming, and payment history is full of medical and test bills. However, the right health insurance policy by Care Health Insurance can ensure you are never alone in this fight. You can access comprehensive coverage, regular screenings, specialist consultations and long-term care.

Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.