Tag: Diabetes Complications

Hyperglycemia vs. Hypoglycemia

Hyperglycemia vs. Hypoglycemia

April 04, 2022

Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) can be a sign of diabetes onset, and it usually continues to occur on and off after you start treatment. On the other hand, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) occurs as the result of diabetes treatment, particularly related to insulin. It is important to know the symptoms for early treatment.

hyperglycemia vs. hypoglycemia symptoms

Hyperglycemia (High Blood Glucose)

Hyperglycemia is when the body can’t use insulin properly or has too little insulin. This causes blood glucose to go above target range or higher than 160 mg/dL. It is important to know the symptoms and treatment options.

Treating Hyperglycemia

  • Be sure to drink plenty of water. It is recommended that you drink at least 8 glasses per day.

  • Ask yourself what may have caused high blood glucose/low blood glucose, and take action to correct it.

  • Try to determine if there is a pattern by checking your blood glucose.

hyperglycemia vs. hypoglycemia symptoms

hyperglycemia vs. hypoglycemia

Hypoclycemia (Low Blood Glucose)

Hypoglycemia is when your blood glucose level is less than 70 mg/dL or your blood glucose level goes below your individual target range.

Treating Hypoglycemia

With Hypoglycemia, consider the 15-15 rule: Eat 15 grams of glucose or simple carbohydrates, then wait 15 minutes and recheck glucose levels. If the level is still low, repeat.

  • Commonly used carbohydrates include glucose tablets, gel tubes, hard candies, 1 tablespoon of sugar, honey, jelly, or 4 ounces of fruit juice/regular soda.

Always consult with your doctor or diabetes educator to review your testing results if you are not sure what to do.

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Diabetes Complications You Should Know

Diabetes Complications You Should Know

March 14, 2022

Diabetes can affect your entire body, and over many years, it can lead to complications. High blood glucose levels can damage your eyes, the nerves in your feet and legs, and your blood vessels. Keeping your blood glucose as close to normal as possible can lower your risk for complications. Getting regular check-ups help find complications early.

Eyes

The retina is in the back of your eye and works like film in an old camera. It allows light to form a picture that is then sent to your brain. Your retina has many tiny, fragile blood vessels, and high blood glucose causes the blood vessel walls to weaken, making it harder to see. Because damage to your eyes is not always noticeable, it is recommended that people with diabetes have their eyes dilated and checked once a year. Finding the damage early can lower chances of losing your vision.

Feet/Legs

High blood glucose levels can cause damage to your nerves. This tends to happen most often in the feet or the legs, because these nerves are the longest in the body and the farthest from your spine. Because diabetes affects blood flow, sores or infections can take longer to heal. It’s always better to prevent problems than treating them.

Heart

Diabetes can damage blood vessels that flow to your heart and brain. People with diabetes are twice as likely to die of heart disease as people without diabetes. The good news is that you can lower your risk by meeting the following targets:

  • Blood pressure less than 140/80 mmHG

  • Total cholesterol of 200 mg/dL or less

  • Having body mass index (BMI) of 30 or less

  • Getting 30 minutes of exercise, 3-5 times per week

  • Not smoking

Can Diabetes Complications be Prevented?

Although you need to be aware of diabetes complications, there is good news. Most complications are linked with high blood glucose levels over time, so you can lower your risk by keeping blood glucose levels as close to normal. Being aware of the symptoms can help you get the treatment you need in time and avoid serious complications. The more you know, the more you can do to have a longer, healthier future. Wearing a continuous glucose monitor can help. Learn More About Continuous Glucose Monitors.

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