Hair Loss And Other Complications

Hello !

I’ve been a type one diabetic for over 15years. My diabetes hasn’t been well controlled. My A1C on average around 9. I was wanted to know if anyone experienced the following symptoms (they are pretty random ).
-hair loss
- swelling of hands and feet in direct sunlight
- water retention (if I’m in the heat too long)
- ankle swelling (not weather dependent)
- my cycle is borderline abnormal. I see my period in between 35-50 days. It’s usually pretty heavy for the first 4 days

Additional information
I experience most of these symptoms if the temperature is above 75 degrees and I’m in direct sunlight. These symptoms are not blood sugar related
My kidneys are fine
I have a heart murmur (not serious)
Asthmatic and gluten intolerant

My PC doctor seems a little confused by my weird symptoms. My Endocrinologist tested my kidneys, the results were fine. If anyone has any suggestions I will be so thankful!

Juicyj said:

Hello @Rori M and welcome to the forum

I haven't had any of these in connection to my type 1, I suffered hair loss in relation to my thyroid though, has your TSH levels been checked ? I can move your post to type 1 to get more visibility with t1 members too if you wish - let me know ?

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Thank you, yes please ! No I haven’t had my TSH levels checked. That’s definitely something I can ask my doctor

Dr Snoddy said:

Hi Rory. You don't mention your weight or BMI but when I was more overweight than I am now I had many of the heat related symptoms that you mention particularly the swollen hands whenever I exercised. Since I have lost weight these have ceased.
Both high blood glucose levels and a lack of iron in the diet can contribute to hair loss. Sorting these out can reverse the problem!

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I’m 4’11 and 115 lbs. Thank You for the suggestions ! I will definitely take it into consideration.

DCUKMod said:

Rori - In truth, as a T1, your thyroid function should be checked at least annually, due to some types of thyroid disease being auto-immune.

It might be an idea to see your GP and ask for a broad spectrum blood panel, including thyroid function. You mention you are intolerant to gluten; have you been tested for Coeliac Disease? Initially that's just a (couple of) bllod tests, but if you're having a blood draw, it could be useful to have a look at that too.

All of tha said, some folks just don't function so well in the sun, but, personally, I'd want a decent blood panel done before defaulting to that thinking.

Good luck with it all.

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I was tested for Coeliac the results were negative. I will definitely take your suggestions into consideration! Thank you