Shortness of breath

[Diabeticem2]

Just wondering if anyone else has experienced anything similar. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in feb/march and it’s been going well managed to get my HBA1C from 126 in December to 68 in may. I take 1500mg metformin and 80mg gliclazide a day however I have noticed recently after every time I eat I’m getting shortness of breath like I can’t take a full breath and have to attempt to yawn in the hopes I’ll get one. It happens regardless of my BG I can be 8mmol or 13mmol and it still happens.

 

[Ieva DUK]

Hi there @Diabeticem2 , firstly, well done on bringing your HbA1c down so significantly in just a few months, that’s a big achievement and a clear sign of how much effort you’ve been putting in!
What you’re describing with the shortness of breath after eating definitely sounds uncomfortable, and it’s understandable that you’re concerned, especially since it’s happening regardless of your blood glucose levels. While it’s not something that’s typically talked about as a common symptom of diabetes or the medications you're on, that doesn’t mean it should be ignored, particularly if it’s happening regularly.
There could be several potential causes, from something digestive like reflux or bloating (which can sometimes press on the diaphragm and affect breathing) to something more related to your heart, lungs, or even a reaction to medication. Sometimes even anxiety (especially if eating has become a source of stress after diagnosis) can contribute to that feeling of breathlessness or the need to yawn to get a deep breath.
Either way, it’s really important to raise this with your GP or diabetes team - especially since it’s happening consistently after meals. They may want to check your heart and lung function, review your medications, or refer you for further assessment just to rule anything out. You know your body best, and you’re absolutely right to listen to these signals.
Please keep us posted on how you get on - you’re doing all the right things by paying attention and reaching out.

 

[Leadinglights]

Just wondering if anyone else has experienced anything similar. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in feb/march and it’s been going well managed to get my HBA1C from 126 in December to 68 in may. I take 1500mg metformin and 80mg gliclazide a day however I have noticed recently after every time I eat I’m getting shortness of breath like I can’t take a full breath and have to attempt to yawn in the hopes I’ll get one. It happens regardless of my BG I can be 8mmol or 13mmol and it still happens.

Is this that has just started happening or ever since you started the medication. If just recent then it could be the particular brand of metformin that has different coating or additives that is causing the reaction.
I should talk to your nurse or GP as it should be happening.
Well done on your reduction in HbA1C but if you are still seeing high levels of 13mmol/l you may need to review your diet. What are you doing with that.

 

[Inka]

Any shortness of breath should be checked out by a doctor @Diabeticem2 Do make an appointment. I see you’re young so it’s unlikely to be anything serious but it still needs checking.

 

[CarolT]

I have had times when I’ve become terribly short of breath, unusually, and it’s always been as a result of very low folates and/or B12. I understand that they can both be a result of taking metformin. Yes, I’d see the doctor and ask if they’ll do some blood work

 

[rebrascora]

I am having occasional issues with this at the moment. I am sure it is down to bloating for me as it feels like I have no room in the bottom of my chest to breath deeply, not that I am tight chested or my heart is struggling or anything serious. I am finding it particularly challenging when the weather is hot and humid as it has been recently and when I am trying to power up a steep hill, so need more oxygen.
My digestive system isn't very happy at the moment, probably because I have had a spell of comfort eating but hoping that now I am back on the straight and narrow and doing more exercise, it will improve.
Maybe keep a food diary of when it happens in case it is a food intolerance causing bloating.... if it feels like bloating is the cause. Mine definitely feels like that, so in my mind, I need to look at my diet to fix it.