Why does diabetes cause headaches?

Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot make enough of the hormone insulin, or cannot use it properly, causing glucose to build up in the blood. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 29 million people in the United States have diabetes.

Diabetes does not usually cause headaches. But, while headaches are not dangerous, they may be an indication of poor blood sugar control in a person with diabetes.

Over time, periods of continuous high or low blood sugar can lead to serious and even life-threatening health complications, such as heart disease and kidney failure.

This article looks at the connection between diabetes and headaches and suggests ways to relieve diabetes-induced headaches.

Contents of this article:

1. Types of headache
2. Why does diabetes cause a headache?
3. Hypoglycemia and headaches
4. Hyperglycemia and headaches
5. Relief
6. When to see a doctor
7. Outlook

Types of headache

Secondary headaches are caused by existing or underlying conditions, such as diabetes.

According to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, published by the International Headache Society, there are over 150 types of headaches.

Broadly speaking, headaches can be classified as either primary or secondary:

Primary headaches are ones that are not linked to another medical condition. Examples of primary headaches include migraines and tension headaches.

Secondary headaches are caused by underlying medical conditions or health issues and include the type of headache often experienced by people with diabetes.

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Other causes of secondary headaches include:

• fever
• high blood pressure (hypertension)
• hormone fluctuations
• infection
• nerve disorders
• overuse of medication
• stress
• stroke
• trauma
• tumor

The pain associated with either primary or secondary headaches can vary in severity and duration. Some people may not experience headaches often, while others can get a headache several days each week.

Depending on the type of headache, other symptoms may be present. For example, migraines can be linked with nausea and increased sensitivity to sound or light.

Diabetes headaches tend to occur frequently and cause moderate to severe levels of pain. A severe headache is considered one that significantly affects someone's ability to function as normal.

Why does diabetes cause a headache?

A person who manages their diabetes effectively may be less likely to experience headaches than someone who does not.

Not everyone with diabetes will experience headaches. People newly diagnosed with diabetes may be more likely to experience headaches because they are still working to manage their blood sugar levels.

Headaches associated with diabetes typically occur because of changes in blood sugar levels.

A headache can indicate that blood sugar levels are too high, which is referred to as hyperglycemia, or too low, which is called hypoglycemia.

The more that blood glucose levels fluctuate, the more likely it is that someone with diabetes will experience headaches. Headaches linked to these fluctuations are thought to result from changing levels of hormones, such as epinephrine and norepinephrine, which may constrict the blood vessels in the brain. This constriction is called vasoconstriction.

Hypoglycemia and headaches

Hypoglycemia is usually characterized by blood sugar levels of less than 70 milligrams per deciliter(mg/dL). Hypoglycemia is a serious condition, as glucose is the primary source of fuel for the brain.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia usually appear suddenly and can be much more obvious than the symptoms of hyperglycemia.

In addition to headaches, some of the symptoms of hypoglycemia include:

• anxiety
• blurred vision
• chills
• confusion
• dizziness
• hunger
• irritability
• lightheadedness
• nausea
• racing heart
• seizures
• shakiness
• sweating
• tiredness
• unconsciousness
• weakness

Hypoglycemia can occur in people with diabetes if they take too much insulin or if they do not eat enough carbohydrates. It is important to manage diabetes carefully and treat symptoms of hypoglycemia quickly to avoid diabetes headaches and more serious compilations.

Hyperglycemia and headaches

Hyperglycemia results from too much glucose circulating in the blood. In type 1 diabetes, it is caused by a lack of insulin production. In type 2 diabetes, it is caused by the body's inability to use insulin correctly. Additional risk factors include:

• eating too much
• not exercising enough
• being stressed

Symptoms of hyperglycemia are often slow to appear. However, a headache is considered an early symptom of hyperglycemia. Other symptoms include:

• blurred vision
• confusion
• dehydration
• excessive thirst
• fatigue
• hunger
• increased urination
• slow-healing wounds

Hyperglycemia is a serious condition that should be treated quickly, as high levels of glucose can damage the blood vessels and nerves. If left untreated, it can lead to a buildup of ketones, a type of acid in the blood. A buildup of ketones can lead to coma and even death.

A person can manage hyperglycemia with dietary changes and medications. Keeping blood sugar levels under control will reduce the risk of headaches caused by diabetes.

Relief

Although over-the-counter painkillers may provide immediate relief in the short-term, they should not be relied upon in the long-term.

Over-the-counter painkillers, including acetaminophen and ibuprofen, may help with short-term symptom relief.

A person should speak to a doctor first to see if their diabetes has affected their kidneys, as people with kidney damage should avoid taking certain painkillers, including ibuprofen.

However, to completely relieve or stop headaches caused by diabetes, it is important to get blood glucose levels under control and practice good diabetes management. This can involve making lifestyle changes and taking or adjusting medication dosages.

A person should always consult a doctor before making changes to their diet, physical activity levels, or medication.

Treating headaches from hypoglycemia

The first step in treating a hypoglycemia-induced headache is to confirm that the pain has been caused by low blood glucose. This can be done by taking a blood glucose test.

Taking a blood glucose test is especially important for people who wake up with a headache, as it can be a sign of nocturnal hypoglycemia.

The American Diabetes Association recommend that people with low blood sugar consume 15 to 20 grams of simple carbohydrates or glucose before re-checking levels after 15 minutes. Once the blood sugar is back in the desired range, the headache pain should reduce.

Treating headaches from hyperglycemia

High blood glucose levels may be brought down with exercise.

If a person with type 1 diabetes is concerned about their ketone level, it is important to check their urine for ketones first, especially if blood sugar levels are above 240 mg/dL.

People with ketones in their urine should not exercise and should contact their doctor immediately, as exercise could increase their blood sugar levels further.

A person can also help prevent headaches by maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritious food, and taking the correct medications.

When to see a doctor

Headaches can signal periods of either high or low blood glucose, which, if left untreated, can lead to life-threatening complications. Therefore, people with diabetes who are experiencing frequent headaches should consult their doctor.

It is important to contact a doctor immediately if:

• a headache is severe and impacts daily life
• blood sugar levels cannot be returned to a desired range
• other severe or persistent symptoms are present

Outlook

Not everyone with diabetes will experience headaches, and diabetes is not the only cause of headaches.

People with diabetes who practice good diabetes management and keep their blood sugar levels under control are less likely to experience headaches. Avoiding hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia is the best way to reduce headaches and other diabetes symptoms, as well as more serious complications.

If headaches are severe or persist despite keeping blood sugar levels controlled, a person should seek further advice from their doctor.

Benefits of fish oil for arthritis

Cod liver oil is traditionally believed to be healthful for people's bones. But could cod liver oil and other fish oils play a role in the treatment of arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that affects 1 in every 5 adults in the United States and is a leading cause of disability. Arthritis affects people's joints, either through inflammation or through cartilage degeneration.

This article explores whether fish oil could be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis and how to use it.

Contents of this article:

1. Does fish oil help arthritis?
2. Omega-3s and arthritic inflammation
3. Other conditions omega-3s may help
4. How to use a fish oil supplement
5. Other fish to eat for arthritis
6. Outlook

Does fish oil help arthritis?

Fish oil and cod liver oil contain properties that may reduce inflammation.

There are two common types of arthritis, both of which can cause joint pain, stiffness, and mobility problems. These are:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An inflammatory joint disease caused by a problem in the immune system.
• Osteoarthritis (OA): A degenerative condition that affects joint cartilage and bones.

Cod liver oil and fish oil contain high levels of two types of omega-3 fatty acids: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). Researchers have found that EPA and DHA both reduce inflammation.

The role of fatty acids in reducing inflammation suggests that they may help treat RA. Researchers have also investigated whether fish oil may play a role in the treatment of OA. This research is also explored here.

Omega-3s and arthritic inflammation

A 2012 review looked at previous studies into the benefits of fish oil for arthritis treatment. In particular, it explored the role of EPA and DHA in reducing joint swelling and pain.

The review found that there was consistent evidence that EPA and DHA from marine sources had a positive effect on joint swelling and pain. It also found that these omega-3 fatty acids helped to improve morning stiffness in the joints, another symptom of RA.

A study in 2016 found that daily supplementation with omega-3 had such a positive effect on RA that it reduced the need for analgesic medication. Analgesics are a type of pain-killing medication that is used to reduce arthritis pain.

Fish oil and osteoarthritis

According to a 2015 review of the current scientific evidence, a number of animal trials suggest that fish oil shows promise as a treatment for OA.

However, the review concluded that further studies were needed to say with certainty whether fish oil is an effective treatment for OA in humans.

Other conditions omega-3s may help

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, fish oil may also help in the treatment of other inflammatory conditions, including:

• heart disease
• Raynaud's syndrome
• lupus

Fish oil may also help reduce certain fats that are found in the bloodstream and lower a person's blood pressure. It has also been found to work well alongside anti-depressants in the treatment of depression.

How to use a fish oil supplement

Fish oil is made from oily fish including salmon, tuna, and mackerel.

The best way to get essential omega-3s is by eating cold-water oily fish. Supplements can be taken but are not monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for quality or purity.

Fish oil is a dietary supplement made from oily fish, including:

• mackerel
• tuna
• herring
• salmon
• cod liver

It also contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including:

• iron
• calcium
• vitamins B, A, and D

Fish oil is different from cod liver oil, which contains oil from pressed cod livers only. Cod liver oil contains much higher quantities of vitamins A and D than fish oil. These vitamins are usually healthful but can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.

People taking fish oil or cod liver oil for arthritis need large amounts of it to gain enough omega-3 fatty acids for them to be beneficial. As such, fish oil is a better source of omega-3 than cod liver oil, as people can consume large doses without taking in harmful levels of vitamins A and D.

Fish oil supplements can be taken as:

• capsules
• pastilles
• chewable tablets
• liquid

For both RA and OA, the Arthritis Foundation recommends taking up to 2.6 grams, twice daily. It is important to find a version of the supplement that contains at least 30 percent of the active ingredients EPA and DHA to get the most benefit.

Other fish to eat for arthritis

Mackerel is considered a good source of omega-3.

Rather than taking fish oil, some people may prefer to include plenty of fish in their diet. This is another way of getting plenty of omega-3 to help with arthritis.

Good sources of omega-3 include:

• salmon
• tuna
• sardines
• mackerel

According to the Arthritis Foundation, eating a 3-6 ounce serving of one of these fish between two and four times every week helps reduce inflammation and protect the heart.

It is important that people consider the mercury content of fish they eat, as consuming too much mercury is not healthful.

Outlook

Arthritis can be painful and may lead to mobility problems. Following a doctor's treatment plan can help people manage arthritis pain and reduce the risk of complications.

Fish oil may be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis by reducing inflammation in the joints. While the positive effects of fish oil on RA are well supported by scientific evidence, further research is needed to prove that it improves symptoms of OA.

Fish oil may interact with some anti-inflammatory drugs used to treat arthritis, so it is important for people to discuss taking it with their doctor first.

How does excess weight drive breast cancer? Study sheds light

Obesity is a known risk factor for breast cancer, but precisely how does excess weight drive the disease? A new study has shed some light, revealing the process by which obesity increases the aggression of breast cancer cells.

By studying mouse and human breast cancer tissue, researchers discovered an increase in blood levels of specific cytokines — which are proteins secreted by immune cells — that reduce the activity of an enzyme called acetyl-CoA-carboxylase 1 (ACC1). 

This process leads to a buildup of a fatty acid precursor called acetyl-CoA, which increases the metastatic ability of breast cancer cells — that is, their ability to spread to other parts of the body.

Interestingly, the team found that the secretion of ACC1-inhibiting cytokines was significantly higher in breast cancer tissue from patients who were obese.

Study co-leader Dr. Stephan Herzig — director of the Institute for Diabetes and Cancer at Helmholtz Zentrum München and a professor of molecular metabolic control at Technische Universität München in Germany — and colleagues recently reported their findings in the journal Cell Metabolism.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer to affect women in the United States after skin cancer. This year, it is estimated that there will be around 252,710 new cases diagnosed in U.S. women, and around 40,610 women will die from the disease.

The vast majority of breast cancer deaths are caused by metastasis, wherein breast cancer cells spread to other areas of the body, such as the lungs or bones.

Obesity and breast cancer

Being overweight or obese is a well-established risk factor for breast cancer. In fact, after going through menopause, women who are obese are 20–40 percent more likely to develop breast cancer than women of a healthy weight.

Obesity has also been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer metastasis and reduced survival from the disease. 

However, the exact mechanisms underling the link between between obesity and breast cancer have been unclear. 

To find out more, Dr. Herzig and colleagues investigated the activity of the enzyme ACC1 in mouse-derived breast cancer cell lines, as well as in breast tissue taken from patients with metastatic breast cancer. 

Previous studies have indicated that ACC1 — which plays a role in the synthesis of fatty acids — may be involved in cancer metastasis.

Obesity increases cytokine release

The analysis revealed that metastatic breast cancer cells have reduced ACC1 levels compared with healthy cells, especially among obese subjects.

The reduction in ACC1 leads to an accumulation of acetyl-CoA. The buildup of acetyl-CoA modifies transcription factors — or proteins that regulate gene expression — in a way that promotes breast cancer metastasis.

Further investigation revealed that obesity leads to an increase in the release of two cytokines, called leptin and transforming growth factor beta, into the bloodstream. These cytokines inhibit ACC1 in breast cancer cells.

The researchers then used an antibody to block a pathway associated with leptin release in human breast cancer cell lines, which, in turn, prevented ACC1 inhibition. They found that this prevented the cancer cells from metastasizing.

Based on their results, the researchers believe that they may have uncovered a potential new therapy for breast cancer.

"Blocking the signaling pathways and switching off the metastasis-related genes could be a therapeutic target. As part of the so-called neoadjuvant therapy, the risk of metastases or the recurrence of tumors could be reduced prior to the surgical removal of the tumor."

All you need to know about iliac crest pain

The iliac crest is the most prominent part of the ilium, the largest of the three bones that make up the bony pelvis or hip bone.

It is the curved part at the top of the hop that sits close to the skin and forms the wing-like part of the pelvis on which a person will sometimes rest their hands.

Pain in the iliac crest can also radiate to other areas of the body, including the back, abdomen, and groin. The location where it is felt depends on what is causing the pain.

Contents of this article:

1. What is the iliac crest?
2. How does iliac crest pain feel?
3. Causes of iliac crest pain
4. Treating iliac crest pain
5. Exercises and stretches
6. Outlook

What is the iliac crest?

The iliac crest, highlighted in the image above, is part of the pelvis. 
Image credit:BodyParts3D is made by DBCLS (Polygondata is from BodyParts3D), (2015, February 8.)

The hip bone or bony pelvis provides strength, stability, and support for the spine and organs. It is made up of three bones, including the ilium, ischium, and pubis.

The iliac crest is the most prominent part of the ilium, the largest of the three big bones.

As well as dividing the pelvis and the abdomen, the iliac crest is connected to many important muscles. These muscles include:

• the gluteus maximus of the hip itself
• the main abdominals
• the latissimus dorsi or largest muscle in the back

How does iliac crest pain feel?

Iliac crest pain tends to make normal movement difficult. The type of pain experienced can vary.

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Pain may also be felt in areas other than the hip, as so many muscles and nerves are connected to the pelvis.

Exactly where the pain is felt will depend on its underlying cause, but the most common symptom is lower back pain.

The pain may spread down the leg, through the buttocks, and into the groin. In some people, it can lead to dull aches in the back or buttocks or sharp muscle spams. Others may experience pain when walking, while bending or twisting may make it worse.

Tenderness and swelling can also be signs of iliac crest problems, particularly if caused by trauma.

Causes of iliac crest pain

Potential causes of iliac crest pain include trauma and sacroiliac joint dysfunction, which may be caused by jogging.

There are a number of causes of iliac crest pain. These can include:

Weak muscles

Strong core muscles are needed to support the joints and to move properly. If the abdominal muscles or lower back muscles are weak, hip pain can occur.

Trauma

The iliac crest can be damaged during a trauma, such as a fall or a car accident. This can result in tenderness and pain in the hip area, and sometimes in the lower back.

If a serious fall occurs, and the person lands on the front and upper part of the iliac crest, it is called a hip pointer.

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Pain in the lower back, abdomen, or groin may be caused by damage to or inflammation of the sacroiliac joint.

This joint, which is in the pelvis and connects the iliac to the lower part of the spine, can be damaged by arthritis, aging, or exercise, such as jogging.

The pain usually starts in one side of the lower back and buttocks and can reach up to the lower hip, groin, and upper thigh.

People may also feel numbness, tingling, or weakness in their leg. The symptoms may get worse when sitting, sleeping, or walking up and down stairs.

Ilium apophysitis

An apophysis is a type of growth plate and the point on a bone where muscles are attached. It is the area of bone that the rest of the bone grows from, and so is the last area of bone to fully harden. As such, it is relatively soft in children and teenagers.

If the muscles are repeatedly pulled from the growth plate—during sports, for example—this can cause it to become irritated and inflamed, or it may even be pulled off the bone. The condition will resolve itself once growth has finished, and the bone has fully hardened.

Ilium apophysitis occurs in children and adolescents, is caused by overuse, and results in a dull pain at the front of the hip. The area can sometimes be swollen, is usually tender, and the pain tends to get worse with activity.

Iliolumbar syndrome

Iliac crest pain syndrome, also known as iliolumbar syndrome, occurs when the iliolumbar ligament tears. This can happen if it undergoes repeated twisting or bending motions and actions. It can also result from trauma, such as a car accident or fall.

Common symptoms of iliolumbar syndrome include persistent bouts of severe pain in the lower back that can spread to the hip and groin. This pain may get worse when a person bends or twists.

Piriformis syndrome 

Piriformis syndrome is usually caused by muscles becoming too tight, often as a result of wear and tear. This puts pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain to spread through the hip and buttocks.

This syndrome can also be caused by working out in worn gym shoes, leading to pain in the pelvic region of the body.

Gluteus medius pain

A problem with the gluteus medius muscle can lead to pain near the iliac crest. This can mean reduced blood flow, flexibility, and range of motion, and less nerve and muscle function.

Cancer of the bone

In rare cases, iliac crest pain can be caused by cancer of the bone.

However, in the overwhelming majority of cases of iliac crest pain, the cause will be one of the other conditions that are listed above.

Treating iliac crest pain

The first step to managing most types of iliac crest pain is RICE, an acronym standing for:

• rest
• ice
• compression
• elevation

If someone experiences iliac crest pain, they should ensure they rest after activities that put a strain on their lower back or hipbone.

After resting, they should apply ice to the affected area as a compress to reduce inflammation and pain. Ice should be wrapped in a towel and applied for 15 minutes about three times per day.

If possible, wrapping the area in a compression bandage can reduce swelling, as can elevating the injured area above the heart.

Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, may also help reduce pain and inflammation

In most cases of iliolumbar syndrome, the best remedy is resting the back. Ice and over-the-counter pain medications can be used to manage pain and swelling. Steroid injections may also be used if the pain is particularly bad.

In cases of ilium apophysitis, if RICE does not ease the pain, a doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medication.

Some people also find that physical therapy can help with the pain and discomfort from iliac crest pain.

Exercises and stretches

Performing gentle hip stretches and exercises may help to alleviate iliac crest pain. If these exercises make the pain worse, stop immediately.

A number of exercises and stretches have been shown to both treat and prevent iliac crest pain.

Hip flexor stretch

1. Kneel on one knee with the other bent in front of you and your hands on your hips.
2. Keeping your back straight, thrust your hips forward.
3. Hold for up to 30 seconds before switching legs.

Hip abduction stretch

1. Stand up straight with your hips, knees, and feet pointing forward.
2. Lift your left leg out to the side and hold for a few seconds.
3. Repeat on the other side.

Lunges

1. Take a big step back, keeping the back heel off the floor.
2. Lower yourself until both legs form a 90° angle with the floor.
3. Be sure to keep the back straight and make sure your front knee does not move forward past the ankle.
4. Repeat as many times as you are able then switch sides.

Hip extensions

1. Hold on to something at waist height, such as the back of a chair.
2. Extend one leg out behind you, keeping your back straight, and hold.
3. Repeat on both sides.

People trying these stretches and exercises should only do them as many times as they feel comfortable. Trying to do more than is comfortable can lead to further injury.

It is a good idea to talk to a doctor before starting a new exercise regime.

Outlook

Wearing good quality shoes while exercising and increasing muscle strength can help prevent iliac crest pain.

Exercises may also help, such as lunges, hip extensions, hip flexor exercises, and hip abductions. These exercises all strengthen the muscles in the iliac crest area.

Most causes of iliac crest pain are treatable by following the RICE procedure and taking over-the-counter pain medications.

If iliac crest pain does not go away with these home treatments, a person should speak to a doctor about other ways to manage the pain.