Can type 2 diabetes cause fatigue even with treatment?

Question

Hello doctor,

My last HbA1c was 7.1, and according to my endocrinologist, my numbers are actually improving. The strange thing is that I still feel exhausted almost every day.

I am a 43-year-old male with type 2 diabetes and take Metformin regularly. Why does someone my age with type 2 diabetes still feel so tired, even while on medication?

I expected to have more energy once my glucose levels came down, but honestly, I still feel drained by mid-afternoon.

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concerns, and I am sorry to hear about your discomfort.

It is great to see that your HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) levels are improving; however, fatigue can still persist even when blood sugar control gets better.

Besides glucose levels, common causes of tiredness in people with type 2 diabetes can include poor sleep, anemia, thyroid issues, vitamin B12 deficiency (which may arise from long-term metformin use), depression, or fluctuations in blood sugar levels throughout the day.

I recommend discussing your symptoms with your doctor and considering some basic blood tests, including a complete blood count, thyroid function tests, and a vitamin B12 level check.

With a proper evaluation, the cause of your fatigue can often be identified and treated.

I hope you find this information helpful.

Thank you.