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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Extreme Weakness And Lethargy In A Diabetic And Depression Patient?

I have type 2 diabetes, depression and hypertension. However I have an unusual symptom. I feel extremely weak and lethargic. It feels like I could pass-out sometimes. This kind of feels like I did when I was younger and was diagnosed with anemia. I just had the annual bloodwork completed and the tests were normal. My A1C is up a little, due to illness but it's typically around 7.3. Please help.
Thu, 17 Mar 2016
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries

I can understand your concern. Diabetes itself is an independent risk factor for depression and anxiety. Depression and anxiety cause symptoms like lethargy, weakness, tiredness etc. Diabetes especially in individuals with poor glycemic control results in neuropathies which cause pain, tiredness and fatigue like symptoms. Though your HbA1c levels are not very deranged but still there is risk.

For persistent tiredness, fatigue and depressive symptoms I'd advise you to consult a psychiatrist. Medicines like Gabapentin or Pregabalin can help to control these weakness, tiredness or fatigue like symptoms. These medicines also reduces the risk of neuropathies also. For depression SSRIs like Sertraline can be used. The medicine is safer in diabetes also and helps to improve your symptoms. Please discuss with your doctor for prescription of these drugs.

Thanks, Hope this clears your doubt. Take care

Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi
(Consultant Psychiatrist)
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What Causes Extreme Weakness And Lethargy In A Diabetic And Depression Patient?

Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries I can understand your concern. Diabetes itself is an independent risk factor for depression and anxiety. Depression and anxiety cause symptoms like lethargy, weakness, tiredness etc. Diabetes especially in individuals with poor glycemic control results in neuropathies which cause pain, tiredness and fatigue like symptoms. Though your HbA1c levels are not very deranged but still there is risk. For persistent tiredness, fatigue and depressive symptoms I d advise you to consult a psychiatrist. Medicines like Gabapentin or Pregabalin can help to control these weakness, tiredness or fatigue like symptoms. These medicines also reduces the risk of neuropathies also. For depression SSRIs like Sertraline can be used. The medicine is safer in diabetes also and helps to improve your symptoms. Please discuss with your doctor for prescription of these drugs. Thanks, Hope this clears your doubt. Take care Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (Consultant Psychiatrist)