Tag: Diabetes Complications

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 (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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Is a CGM right for you?

Learn More
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