How Diabetes Affect Your Sweat Glands ?

By Vanshika Gaur
04 Jul 2025, 11:00 IST

People with diabetes may experience disrupted sweat glands due to nerve damage caused by persistent high blood sugar levels. From diabetic neuropathy to night sweats, diabetes can affect sweat glands in numerous ways. Tap to know them!

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy can affect sweat glands by reducing sweating in legs and feet, and increasing it in the upper body and face, increasing the risk of skin damage.

Heat Intolerance

Individuals with diabetes may not be able to tolerate heat, as the body is unable to cool itself down, making them more sensitive to heat.

Foot Ulcers

The disrupted sweat gland function can also cause foot ulcers, as lack of sweat in the feet can cause them to dry and crack.

Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating, also known as gustatory sweating, can occur in the upper body during meals or at night while sleeping.

Increased Risk Of Skin Infections

Reduced sweating in the feet due to diabetes can make the skin dry and cracked, increasing the risk of skin infections.

Unable To Regulate Body Temperature

Impaired sweat glands due to nerve damage from diabetes make it difficult for the body to regulate temperature properly, leading to overheating.

Night Sweats

The blood sugar levels can fluctuate at night, which can trigger night sweats, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and more.

Information Credits

According to PubMed, diabetes affect sweat glands by leading to diabetic neuropathy, night sweats, and more. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalised suggestions.