Treatment FAQ

how high does your blood sugar have to be before you seek immediate medical treatment

by Wade Johnson Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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High blood sugar can become a medical emergency. Go to the ER if you suspect DKA or HHS. According to the University of Michigan, blood sugar levels of 300 mg/dL or more can be dangerous. They recommend calling a doctor if you have two readings in a row of 300 or more.

For adults, if you start to feel drowsy or disoriented or if your blood sugar continues to rise, for example, above 20.0 mmol/L, call 911 or other emergency services immediately. It's best to have someone with you if your blood sugar is this elevated so that the person can call for you.

Full Answer

When to go to hospital for high blood sugar?

Nevertheless, if you learn that your blood sugar is in the 400’s simply because it was time to take a scheduled glucose reading, but you feel perfectly fine, it’s not necessary to go to the emergency room. On the other hand, here are serious symptoms of abnormally high glucose: • Nausea, vomiting • Shortness of breath • Severe fatigue

What is the normal range of blood sugar?

Dec 05, 2017 · In the long term, persistent hyperglycemia, even if not severe, can lead to complications affecting your eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart. Symptoms Hyperglycemia doesn't cause symptoms until glucose values are significantly elevated — above 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), or 11 millimoles per liter (mmol/L).

How much blood sugar is too high for a diabetic?

Dr. Charles Turck answered. Pharmacology 18 years experience. Over 250 mg/dl: Two complications from high blood sugar require immediate attention, and they have different blood sugar thresholds (>250 or >600).

What should I do if my blood sugar is 240?

Apr 28, 2021 · If you’re ill and your blood sugar is 240 mg/dL or above, use an over-the-counter ketone test kit to check your urine for ketones and call your doctor if your ketones are high. High ketones can be an early sign of diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a medical emergency and needs to be treated immediately. What are ketones?

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How can I check my blood sugar?

Use a blood sugar meter (also called a glucometer) or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to check your blood sugar. A blood sugar meter measures th...

When should I check my blood sugar?

How often you check your blood sugar depends on the type of diabetes you have and if you take any diabetes medicines. Typical times to check your b...

What are blood sugar targets?

A blood sugar target is the range you try to reach as much as possible. These are typical targets: Before a meal: 80 to 130 mg/dL. Two hours after...

What causes low blood sugar?

Low blood sugar (also called hypoglycemia) has many causes, including missing a meal, taking too much insulin, taking other diabetes medicines, exe...

How can I treat low blood sugar?

Hypoglycemia UnawarenessIf you’ve had low blood sugar without feeling or noticing symptoms (hypoglycemia unawareness), you may need to check your b...

What causes blood sugar to be high?

Many things can cause high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), including being sick, being stressed, eating more than planned, and not giving yourself eno...

What are ketones?

Ketones are a kind of fuel produced when fat is broken down for energy. Your liver starts breaking down fat when there’s not enough insulin in your...

What is diabetic ketoacidosis?

If you think you may have low blood sugar, check it even if you don’t have symptoms. When too many ketones are produced too fast, they can build up...

How can I treat high blood sugar?

Talk to your doctor about how to keep your blood sugar levels within your target range. Your doctor may suggest the following: Be more active. Regu...

How do carbs affect blood sugar?

Carbs in food make your blood sugar levels go higher after you eat them than when you eat proteins or fats. You can still eat carbs if you have dia...

What happens if your blood sugar is out of whack?

Blood sugar that’s consistently out of whack increases your risk of health problems throughout your body , including your heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Resulting complications could lead to disabling, even life-threatening, conditions — and that’s why, if you have type 2 diabetes, practicing good diabetes management and maintaining blood sugar control is a must. Being aware of possible complications and their symptoms is one of the first steps to successfully managing diabetes, says Gerald Bernstein, MD, director of the diabetes management program at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Educating yourself may help you delay or prevent complications from happening. Start here, by reading about seven signs of diabetes complications that should never be ignored. Confusion, dizziness, and shakiness. These symptoms are often a sign of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). “People describe it as feeling nervous or anxious,” says Lori Zanini, RD, CDE, a spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Blood sugar is usually considered low when it falls below 70. If left untreated, blood sugar that goes too low could cause you to pass out and need emergency medical treatment. If you feel any of the symptoms of hypoglycemia, check your blood sugar. If your number is less than 70, eat 15 grams of carbohydrate such as 3 glucose tablets, 4 ounces of orange juice, or 2 tablespoons of raisins. Wait 15 minutes and then check your blood sugar again. If it hasn’t gone above 70, eat 15 more grams of carbohydrate, wait 15 minutes, and recheck your blood sugar. If you continue to experience symptoms, call your doctor or seek medical treatment. Zanini advises carrying hard candy or glucose tablets with you so you can react as soon as you feel you Continue reading >>

How to cope with diabetes?

It is very important to know how to cope with illness if you have diabetes or know or care for somebody with diabetes. If in doubt, always seek advice from your doctor or nurse straightaway. Any illness or other type of stress will raise your blood sugar (glucose) levels, even if you are off your food or eating less than usual. People with diabetes are unable to produce more insulin to control the glucose level. The increased glucose level can make you become very lacking in fluid in the body (dehydrated). Acting quickly and following advice helps to keep your glucose levels in the normal range or only slightly high. Because it can sometimes be very difficult to control your blood glucose levels, treatment in hospital may be needed. Hospital treatment may also be needed if you become very dehydrated. What happens to my diabetes when I am unwell? When a person with diabetes is unwell the sugar level in the blood tends to increase. This can happen even with a very mild illness such as the common cold. The blood sugar (glucose) may go up even if you are not eating properly or are being sick (vomiting) or have loose or watery poo (diarrhoea). The increase in blood sugar may make you very lacking in fluid in the body (dehydrated). What should you do when you are unwell? Contact your GP or practice nurse for advice if you are not sure. You may also need treatment for the illness that is making you feel unwell. If you check your blood sugar (glucose) levels then these checks should be more regular. A practice nurse or district nurse can help with checking blood glucose levels, especially if you don't usually check them regularly. Continue eating as normally as possible. If you don't feel like eating, replace your solid food with soup, milk, ice cream, fruit juice, sugar or hon Continue reading >>

Why does blood sugar spike?

Blood sugar spikes are caused when a simple sugar known as glucose builds up in your bloodstream. Most of the food you eat is broken down into glucose. Your body needs glucose because it’s the fuel that makes your muscles, organs, and brain work properly. Glucose can’t be used as fuel until it enters your cells.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

In addition to the day-to-day basics of diabetes management and treatment, there's learning to recognize the signs and symptoms of two potential diabetes-related conditions: hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). These can occur at any time and need to be treated immediately to avoid a medical emergency. Causes of Hyperglycemia Your blood sugars can rise to dangerous levels when you haven't taken enough insulin (if you are type 1) or when your insulin receptors are not working as they should (with type 2). Perhaps you miscalculated the number of carbohydrates you ate at a meal, or you were under stress or had an illness. Each of these situations can lead to hyperglycemia. Symptoms That Need Attention If you have these symptoms please call your health care professional and/or go to the emergency room: Increased thirst increased urination Nausea/vomiting Deep and/or rapid breathing Abdominal pain Fruity smelling breath Loss of consciousness Another type of dangerous situation is called Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HHNS). This is defined as a dangerously high blood sugar that is >600 mg/dL. It is typically brought on either by an infection, such as pneumonia or a urinary tract infection, or poor management of your blood sugar. If left untreated, it can result in coma and even death. Signs and symptoms include: extreme thirst confusion fever (usually over 101 degrees Fahrenheit) weakness or paralysis on one side of the body The best way to prevent HHNS is to take your medications as directed and to keep in contact with your healthcare team when your blood sugar is consistently >300 mg/dL. When to See a Doctor if your blood sugar is over 240 mg/dl. Hyperglycemia can Continue reading >>

How to know if you have HHNS?

Signs and symptoms include: extreme thirst confusion fever (usually over 101 degrees Fahrenheit) weakness or paralysis on one side of the body The best way to prevent HHNS is to take your medications as directed and to keep in contact with your healthcare team when your blood sugar is consistently >300 mg/dL.

Is high blood sugar dangerous?

Untreated high blood sugar can be dangerous, leading to a serious condition called ketoacidosis. Chronic high blood sugar increases the likelihood of serious diabetes complications like heart disease, blindness, neuropathy, and kidney failure.

Why is blood glucose high?

Hyperglycemia is a defining characteristic of diabetes—when the blood glucose level is too high because the body isn't properly using or doesn't make the hormone insulin. You get glucose from the foods you eat.

How long does it take for a doctor to answer a question?

Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers — it's anonymous and free! Doctors typically provide answers within 24 hours.

Can type 2 diabetes be silent?

Yes: Yes, type 2 diabetes can be "clinically silent, " meaning you may not have any symptoms at all. The only sign that you have it may be the high blood s ... Read More

Is transitory high blood sugar a C?

Probably: That would entirely depend on how high it is and how long it has been high. If you are not diabetic a transitory high blood sugar is probably of no c ... Read More

How long to wait to check blood sugar?

Wait for 15 minutes and then check your blood sugar again. Do one of the above treatments again until your blood sugar is 70 mg/dL or above and eat a snack if your next meal is an hour or more away. If you have problems with low blood sugar, ask your doctor if your treatment plan needs to be changed.

Why is it important to keep your blood sugar level in your target range?

It’s important to keep your blood sugar levels in your target range as much as possible to help prevent or delay long-term, serious health problems, such as heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease. Staying in your target range can also help improve your energy and mood. Find answers below to common questions about blood sugar ...

How to control high blood sugar?

If your blood sugar is often high, your doctor may change how much medicine you take or when you take it. Follow your diabetes meal plan. Ask your doctor or dietitian for help if you’re having trouble sticking to it. Check your blood sugar as directed by your doctor.

What is the target blood sugar?

A blood sugar target is the range you try to reach as much as possible. These are typical targets: Before a meal: 80 to 130 mg/dL. Two hours after the start of a meal: Less than 180 mg/dL. Your blood sugar targets may be different depending on your age, any additional health problems you have, and other factors.

How to check blood sugar?

How can I check my blood sugar? Use a blood sugar meter (also called a glucometer) or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to check your blood sugar. A blood sugar meter measures the amount of sugar in a small sample of blood, usually from your fingertip.

Is it dangerous to drive with low blood sugar?

Driving with low blood sugar can be dangerous, so be sure to check your blood sugar before you get behind the wheel. Carry supplies for treating low blood sugar with you. If you feel shaky, sweaty, or very hungry or have other symptoms, check your blood sugar.

How do you know if you have low blood sugar?

Signs of low blood sugar are different for everyone. Common symptoms include: Shaking. Sweating. Nervousness or anxiety. Irritability or confusion. Dizziness. Hunger. Know what your individual symptoms are so you can catch low blood sugar early and treat it.

What is the recommended blood sugar level for diabetics?

For many people who have diabetes, the American Diabetes Association generally recommends the following target blood sugar levels: Between 80 and 130 mg/dL (4.4 and 7.2 mmol/L) before meals. Your target blood sugar range may differ, especially if you're pregnant or you have developed diabetes complications.

What to do if you have trouble keeping your blood sugar level?

If you have trouble keeping your blood sugar within the desired range, schedule an appointment to see your doctor. He or she can help you make changes to better manage your diabetes.

How to control hyperglycemia?

Adjust your insulin doses to control hyperglycemia. Adjustments to your insulin program or a supplement of short-acting insulin can help control hyperglycemia. A supplement is an extra dose of insulin used to help temporarily correct a high blood sugar level.

How does insulin help with hyperglycemia?

Insulin reverses the processes that cause ketones to build up in your blood. Along with fluids and electrolytes, you'll receive insulin therapy — usually through a vein. As your body chemistry returns to normal, your doctor will consider what may have triggered the severe hyperglycemia.

How does A1C work?

This blood test indicates your average blood sugar level for the past two to three months. It works by measuring the percentage of blood sugar attached to the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells (hemoglobin).

Where to treat diabetic ketoacidosis?

If you have signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state, you may be treated in the emergency room or admitted to the hospital. Emergency treatment can lower your blood sugar to a normal range. Treatment usually includes:

What is the blood sugar level for ketoacidosis?

If your blood sugar level is 240 mg/dL (13.3 mmol/L) or above, use an over-the-counter urine ketones test kit. If the urine test is positive, your body may have started making the changes that can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. You'll need your doctor's help to lower your blood sugar level safely.

What are the symptoms of high blood glucose?

Hundreds of websites reprint them. Most diabetes books list them. You likely know some of the items on the list by heart: thirst, frequent urination, blurry vision, slow healing of cuts, and more. But have you ever stopped to wonder why these symptoms occur? How does high blood glucose cause frequent urination, make your vision go blurry, or cause all of those other things to happen? Here are some answers to explain what’s going on in your body when you have high blood glucose. Setting the stage for high blood glucose High blood glucose (called hyperglycemia by medical professionals) is the defining characteristic of all types of diabetes. It happens when the body can no longer maintain a normal blood glucose level, either because the pancreas is no longer making enough insulin, or because the body’s cells have become so resistant to insulin that the pancreas cannot keep up, and glucose is accumulating in the bloodstream rather than being moved into the cells. What is high blood sugar? Blood glucose is commonly considered too high if it is higher than 130 mg/dl before a meal or higher than 180 mg/dl two hours after the first bite of a meal. However, most of the signs and symptoms of high blood glucose don’t appear until the blood glucose level is higher than 250 mg/dl. Some of the symptoms have a rapid onset, while others require a long period of high blood glucose to set in. It’s important to note that individuals differ in their sensitivity to the effects of high blood glucose: Some people feel symptoms more quickly or more strongly than others. But each sign or sympt Continue reading >>

Why is my blood sugar high?

What is high blood sugar? High blood sugar means that the level of sugar in your blood is higher than normal. It is the main problem caused by diabetes. The medical term for high blood sugar is hyperglycemia. Blood sugar is also called glucose. How does it occur? Blood sugar that stays high is the main problem of diabetes. If you have type 1 diabetes, high blood sugar happens because your body is not making insulin. Insulin moves sugar from the blood into your cells. It is normally made by the pancreas. If you have type 2 diabetes, high blood sugar usually happens because the cells have become unable to use the insulin your body is making. In both cases high levels of sugar build up in the blood. Sometimes people with diabetes can have high blood sugar even if they are taking diabetes medicine. This can happen for many reasons but it always means that your diabetes is not in good control. Some reasons why your sugar might go too high are: skipping your diabetes medicine or not taking the right amount of medicine if you are using insulin: a problem with your insulin (for example, the wrong type or damage to the insulin because it has not been stored properly) if you are using an insulin pump: a problem with the pump (for example, the pump is turned off or the catheter has come out) taking medicines that make your blood sugar medicines work less well (steroids, hormones or water pills) eating or drinking too much (that is, taking in too many calories) not getting enough physical activity emotional or physical stress illness, including colds and flu, especially if there is fever infections, such as an abscessed tooth or urinary tract infection Even if you don’t have diabetes, you may have high blood sugar for a brief time after you eat a food very high in sugar. For exam Continue reading >>

What is low blood sugar?

Low blood sugar is called hypoglycemia. A blood sugar level below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) is low and can harm you. A blood sugar level below 54 mg/dL (3.0 mmol/L) is cause for immediate action. You are at risk for low blood sugar if you have diabetes and are taking any of the following diabetes medicines: Insulin Glyburide (Micronase), glipizide (Glucotrol), glimepiride (Amaryl), repaglinide (Prandin), or nateglinide (Starlix) Chlorpropamide (Diabinese), tolazamide (Tolinase), acetohexamide (Dymelor), or tolbutamide (Orinase) Know how to tell when your blood sugar is getting low. Symptoms include: Weakness or feeling tired Shaking Sweating Headache Hunger Feeling uneasy, nervous, or anxious Feeling cranky Trouble thinking clearly Double or blurry vision Fast or pounding heartbeat Sometimes your blood sugar may be too low even if you do not have symptoms. If it gets too low, you may: Faint Have a seizure Go into a coma Talk with your health care provider about when you should check your blood sugar every day. People who have low blood sugar need to check their blood sugar more often. The most common causes of low blood sugar are: Taking your insulin or diabetes medicine at the wrong time Taking too much insulin or diabetes medicine Not eating enough during meals or snacks after you have taken insulin or diabetes medicine Skipping meals Waiting too long after taking your medicine to eat your meals Exercising a lot or at a time that is unusual for you Not checking your blood sugar or not adjusting your insulin dose before exercising Drinking alcohol Preventing low blood sugar is better than having to treat it. Always have a source of fast-acting sugar with you. When you exercise, check your blood sugar levels. Make sure you have snacks with you. Talk to your provider about r Continue reading >>

How to know if you have hyperosmolar state?

Call or other emergency services right away if: You have symptoms of hyperosmolar state, such as: Trouble staying awake or trouble being woken up. Fast, deep breathing. Breath that smells fruity. Feeling confused. You had passed out (lost consciousness), or if you suddenly become very sleepy or confused. (You may have very low blood sugar, called hypoglycemia.) Call a doctor if: You are sick and cannot control your blood sugar. You have been vomiting or have had diarrhea for more than 6 hours. You have a blood sugar level that stays higher than the level the doctor has set for you, for example, 300 mg/dL for two or more readings. You have blood sugar that stays lower than the level the doctor has set for you, for example, 70 mg/dL for two or more readings. Check with your doctor if: You often have problems with high or low blood sugar levels. You have trouble knowing when your blood sugar is low (hypoglycemia unawareness). You have questions or want to know more about diabetes. Health professionals who may be involved in your diabetes care include: A registered dietitian. All people newly diagnosed with diabetes should see a dietitian for help in choosing healthy foods. If you have signs of complications of diabetes, such as nerve problems or kidney problems, you may be referred to a specialist. Learn more about the roles of the health professionals on a diabetes care team. Continue reading >>

What is the difference between diabetes and hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia means high (hyper) glucose (gly) in the blood (emia). Your body needs glucose to properly function. Your cells rely on glucose for energy. Hyperglycemia is a defining characteristic of diabetes— when the blood glucose level is too high because the body isn't properly using or doesn't make the hormone insulin. You get glucose from the foods you eat. Carbohydrates, such as fruit, milk, potatoes, bread, and rice, are the biggest source of glucose in a typical diet. Your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, and then transports the glucose to the cells via the bloodstream. Body Needs Insulin However, in order to use the glucose, your body needs insulin. This is a hormone produced by the pancreas. Insulin helps transport glucose into the cells, particularly the muscle cells. People with type 1 diabetes no longer make insulin to help their bodies use glucose, so they have to take insulin, which is injected under the skin. People with type 2 diabetes may have enough insulin, but their body doesn't use it well; they're insulin resistant. Some people with type 2 diabetes may not produce enough insulin. People with diabetes may become hyperglycemic if they don't keep their blood glucose level under control (by using insulin, medications, and appropriate meal planning). For example, if someone with type 1 diabetes doesn't take enough insulin before eating, the glucose their body makes from that food can build up in their blood and lead to hyperglycemia. Your endocrinologist will tell you what your target blood glucose levels are. Your levels may be different from what is usually considered as normal because of age, pregnancy, and/or other factors. Fasting hyperglycemia is defined as when you don't eat for at least eight hours. Recommended range without diabet Continue reading >>

What happens if you have too much glucose in your blood?

Hyperglycaemia is having too much glucose (sugar) in your blood. This can happen for many reasons, such as: missing a dose of your usual medication being less active than usual eating too many carbohydrates, found in sugary foods and drinks, and other foods such as potatoes, bread and pasta being sick or taking medication being stressed having an infections (e.g. thrush, cystitis, wound infections) drinking too much alcohol. If you have hyperglycaemia , you might: feel thirsty feel tired have a dry mouth need to pass urine frequently have a headache feel confused feel drowsy. It’s important that if you feel like this, you act on it. If not treated, a high blood sugar level can lead to a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. Here are some steps you can take if you find your blood sugar level is higher than it should be. Get plenty of rest. Contact your doctor or Credentialled Diabetes Educator for advice about increasing your dose of short acting insulin. You may also need extra doses of this insulin (e.g. 2-4 units every 2 hours ). Check your urine for ketones if you have the necessary equipment. Always test using urine that you have just freshly passed, otherwise you may not get a true reading. Drink plenty of sugar-free, non-alcoholic fluids such as water to stay well hydrated. Try to avoid alcohol and drinks containing caffeine, such as cola, tea and coffee, as these can dehydrate you. Check your blood sugar level regularly to see if it is going down. Contact your doctor or go to hospital if: vomiting is stopping you from drinking or eating your blood glucose levels remain high you find moderate to high levels of ketones in your urine. Continue reading >>

What happens if you are in a diabetic coma?

Print Overview A diabetic coma is a life-threatening diabetes complication that causes unconsciousness. If you have diabetes, dangerously high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to a diabetic coma. If you lapse into a diabetic coma, you're alive — but you can't awaken or respond purposefully to sights, sounds or other types of stimulation. Left untreated, a diabetic coma can be fatal. The prospect of a diabetic coma is scary, but fortunately you can take steps to help prevent it. Start by following your diabetes treatment plan. Symptoms Before developing a diabetic coma, you'll usually experience signs and symptoms of high blood sugar or low blood sugar. High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) If your blood sugar level is too high, you may experience: Increased thirst Frequent urination Fatigue Nausea and vomiting Shortness of breath Stomach pain Fruity breath odor A very dry mouth A rapid heartbeat Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) Signs and symptoms of a low blood sugar level may include: Shakiness or nervousness Anxiety Fatigue Weakness Sweating Hunger Nausea Dizziness or light-headedness Difficulty speaking Confusion Some people, especially those who've had diabetes for a long time, develop a condition known as hypoglycemia unawareness and won't have the warning signs that signal a drop in blood sugar. If you experience any symptoms of high or low blood sugar, test your blood sugar and follow your diabetes treatment plan based on the test results. If you don't start to feel better quickly, or you start to feel worse, call for emergency help. When to see a doctor A diabetic coma is a medical emergency. If you feel extreme high or low blood sugar signs or symptoms and think you might pass out, call 911 or your local emergency nu Continue reading >>

How to know if you have kidney failure?

Diabetes is the top cause of kidney failure in America. Be sure to have your urine tested for protein and watch for these symptoms: 1 High blood pressure 2 Increased urination 3 Ankle or leg swelling 4 ​Decreased need for insulin

What happens if your blood sugar is too high?

If hyperglycemia is not properly treated, the blood can become too acidic and cause cell damage. This can lead to coma or death. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include: Increased thirst. Excessive urination.

How many times more likely is diabetes to have a heart attack?

Heart Attack. Diabetes makes you two to four times more likely to have a heart attack. Be sure you know the Common Signs of a Heart Attack so you can immediately call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Can diabetics get amputations?

Foot Injuries. Nerve damage due to diabetes can lead to numbness in the feet, causing diabetics to be unaware of foot injuries, which can later lead to amputations. Make sure to check your feet daily for any injury. Catching it quickly may save your limb.

What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?

If a diabetic is unable to raise the blood sugar back to a stable level, hypoglycemia can lead to coma or death. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include: Shaking or weakness. Headache.

What are the factors that affect blood sugar?

Keeping your blood sugar levels under control can be tough. There are so many factors that can affect blood sugar, like exercise, food, illness, exhaustion and stress. Any of these can cause your careful control to go right out the window. So how do you know if your loss of control is an emergency?

How to know if you have HHNS?

Signs and symptoms include: extreme thirst confusion fever (usually over 101 degrees Fahrenheit) weakness or paralysis on one side of the body The best way to prevent HHNS is to take your medications as directed and to keep in contact with your healthcare team when your blood sugar is consistently >300 mg/dL.

When should I get my blood sugar tested?

Your blood sugar is tested before meals and at bedtime to ensure that you receive the proper insulin coverage, says Dr. Vouyiouklis Kellis. If your blood sugar is high before a meal, you will typically be given slightly more insulin in addition to your mealtime insulin to cover the high blood sugar reading.

Can high blood sugar be dangerous?

The best way to avoid dangerously high blood sugar levels is to self-test to stay in tune with your body, and to stay attuned to the symptoms and risk factors for hyperglycemia.

What is the condition of having too little glucose in the blood?

Hypoglycemia Hypoglycemia is the condition of having too little glucose in the blood, usually below 70 mg/dl. It can result from taking too much insulin, not eating, illness or exercise. Hypoglycemia, sometimes called insulin shock or insulin reaction, can cause serious physical and mental changes.

How to take care of diabetes?

Taking care of your diabetes includes knowing when to call a doctor and get medical help. As you learn more about diabetes, you'll become more confident about knowing when to call for help. Even if you're managing your diabetes on your own, it's a good idea to tell your mom or dad when you're feeling sick or having any symptoms that might be related to your diabetes. Having this parental support can be a huge help. Your mom or dad can help you get in touch with your doctor to prevent things from getting serious or even take you to the emergency department if you need it. If you're having a problem, start by checking your diabetes management plan. The plan can give you ideas on when and where to call for help. For many medical problems, it's best to start by calling your primary doctor, like your pediatrician or family doctor. In some cases, though, your diabetes management plan might advise you to call someone else on your diabetes health care team. If you need to see a doctor or get medical care, health care professionals may ask about: your symptoms, like whether you've been throwing up or feeling more tired than usual any prescription medications you're taking and the phone number of your pharmacy If you have time, it can help to write down this info before you visit the doctor. If you're ill, especially if the illness causes fever, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, or if your ability to eat or drink has been affected, call your doctor. You should also let your doctor or diabetes health care team know if you: have had a significant injury (more than a minor cut, scrape, or bump) have been prescribed new medications for another health problem (some medications may affect blood sugar levels) If you think a situation is an emergency, tell someone to call 911 or help you Continue reading >>

Does exercise lower blood sugar?

Exercising can also help lower blood sugar. But there are times when its best to go to the hospital. If youre experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) , you should seek immediate medical attention. DKA is a serious complication of type 1 diabetes, and, much less commonly, type 2 diabetes.

What is the condition of having too little glucose in the blood?

Hypoglycemia is the condition of having too little glucose in the blood, usually below 70 mg/dl. It can result from taking too much insulin, not eating, illness or exercise. Hypoglycemia sometimes called insulin shock or insulin reaction can cause serious physical and mental changes.

What are the factors that affect blood sugar?

There are so many factors that can affect blood sugar, like exercise, food, illness, exhaustion, and stress. Any of these can cause your careful control to go right out the window.

Why do cells starve?

Both are the result of insulin deficiency, which causes other hormones to be released to compensate. With not enough insulin to permit access of glucose to the cells in the bloodstream, the cells starve.

How do you know if you have HHS?

Symptoms of HHS (which may develop over a period of days or weeks) include thirst, increased urination, fatigue, increased weight loss and decreased skin elasticity. Blurred vision is also possible . There may also be altered mental status, including extreme lethargy and unconsciousness.

What causes hyperglycemia?

HYPERGLYCEMIA. Like hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia can be triggered by stress, illness, exercise, diet or exhaustion. It can also result from insufficient insulin in the blood cells, whether because of insufficient production, insufficient injections or because of insulin resistance by the cells.

Can hypoglycemia cause death?

While rare, severe hypoglycemia, left untreated, can result in death.

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