Q: I am a 50-year-old man with diabetes. For the past two weeks, I have been feeling very tired even after retiring to bed early. I've also lost my appetite. Is the condition related to my illness? - Chong, Kangar

DR RAHMAN: In diabetes, although your blood sugar level is high, your tissues are deficient of glucose and hungry for it. Glucose is the basic ingredient (fuel) for energy. It's natural for an energy deficient diabetic to feel lethargic and tired frequently. They also tend to lose weight if their diabetes is not well-controlled. Certain diabetes medications like Metformine can cause loss of appetite and lethargy. Check with your doctor to see if your complaints are due to uncontrolled diabetes or the effect of the drug.

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