Weighted blanket

[trefor7994419]

Hello
Can somebody help me on this one. Weighted blankets I've been told that if you have diabetes you should not use them. WHY???
I've been told due to blood clots
And is this the same for type 2 or just type 1?
Also on this massage mats shikari ones with the little spikes. I understand about standing and foot damage But what about the rest of the body?

 

[catinahat]

Welcome @trefor7994419

I've copied this paragraph from here https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/do-weighted-blankets-work#risks

Risks of a weighted blanket​

The heaviness of a weighted blanket may cause difficulties for people with certain preexisting conditions, such as:

• Asthma: A weighted blanket may worsen breathing difficulties in people with asthma.
• Sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person stops breathing for short periods during sleep. A weighted blanket may cause further breathing difficulties in people with sleep apnea.
• Diabetes: Diabetes can cause problems with circulation. The heaviness of a weighted blanket may further restrict circulation in people with diabetes.
• Claustrophobia: A weighted blanket can feel tight and restrictive, and this may trigger a fear response in people with claustrophobia.

People with any of the above conditions should talk to a healthcare professional before considering using a weighted blanket.

So it would seem to depend on your control. If you are suffering from some of the unpleasant side effects of high blood sugar, poor circulation for example then it would probably be wise to discuss it with your Dr.
If on the other hand your blood sugar is usually well controlled and you are otherwise fairly healthy, I wouldn't be too concerned.

 

[lovinglife]

Weighted blankets seem to be one of the latest medical things to become mainstream(abused) a bit like the drug Ozempic. Originally they were for people with autism spectrum disorder.

They are quite a specialist thing and are made specifically for the person (and very expensive!) My son had one prescribed by his paediatrician when he was younger, he had to be weighed regularly as they are made to a weight ratio and had to be altered as he grew. They should only ever to be used up to 2 hours at a time or in times of stress and anxiety, it’s part of some people with autism needing to feel deep pressure to calm down or function and it’s a safe way to do it. He also had a weighted vest that worked well at school, but again only for short periods at a time.

Buying a generic weighted blanket and using it overnight etc probably isn’t the best thing for anyone to be honest