Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
It occurs when the body cannot effectively use or produce insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Diabetic emergencies, such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), can occur in people with diabetes, and if not managed properly, can lead to severe complications or even death.
This article will discuss hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, their symptoms, causes, and how to manage them effectively.
Hypoglycemia: Low Blood Sugar
Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop below the normal range, typically less than 70 mg/dL.
While it can happen in people without diabetes, it is most common in those with diabetes who take insulin or other glucose-lowering medications.
Causes of Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia can be caused by several factors, including:
- Taking too much insulin or oral diabetes medication
- Skipping or delaying meals
- Exercising more than usual without adjusting insulin doses or food intake
- Drinking alcohol, which can interfere with blood sugar management
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary from person to person, but common signs include:
- Shakiness or trembling
- Sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Hunger
- Irritability or mood swings
- Fatigue or weakness
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty concentrating or confusion
- Seizures or unconsciousness in severe cases
Managing Hypoglycemia
If you suspect that you or someone you know is experiencing hypoglycemia, it is important to take immediate action to raise blood sugar levels.
Here are some steps to follow:
- Consume 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as fruit juice, glucose gel, or candy.
- Wait 15 minutes and re-check your blood sugar levels.
- If your blood sugar is still low, consume another 15-20 grams of carbohydrates and re-check your blood sugar in another 15 minutes.
- Once your blood sugar returns to normal, eat a balanced meal or snack to prevent another drop in blood sugar levels.
- In severe cases where the person is unconscious or unable to swallow, a glucagon injection may be necessary.
It is essential to discuss the use of glucagon with your healthcare provider and ensure that you and your family members know how to administer it in case of an emergency.
Hyperglycemia: High Blood Sugar
Hyperglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels rise above the normal range, typically above 180 mg/dL.
It is a common issue for people with diabetes, and if left untreated, can lead to serious complications.
Causes of Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia can be caused by several factors, including:
- Insufficient insulin or oral diabetes medication
- Eating more carbohydrates than planned
- Illness or infection, which can increase the body’s need for insulin
- Emotional stress, which can affect hormone levels and blood sugar management
- Decreased physical activity
Symptoms of Hyperglycemia
Symptoms of hyperglycemia can vary from person to person, but common signs include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Dry mouth or skin
- Fatigue or weakness
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Slow-healing cuts or sores
- Nausea or vomiting in severe cases
Managing Hyperglycemia
If you suspect that you or someone you know is experiencing hyperglycemia, it is important to take immediate action to lower blood sugar levels.
Here are some steps to follow:
- Check your blood sugar levels to confirm hyperglycemia.
- Drink water to help flush excess sugar out of your system through urine.
- Exercise, if your blood sugar is between 180 and 240 mg/dL and you don’t have ketones in your urine. Exercise can help lower blood sugar levels, but if ketones are present, exercise may increase blood sugar levels.
- Adjust your insulin or oral diabetes medication as instructed by your healthcare provider.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels closely and seek medical attention if they do not improve or worsen.
In some cases, hyperglycemia may lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), both of which are life-threatening conditions that require emergency medical attention.
Preventing Diabetic Emergencies
To reduce the risk of diabetic emergencies, it is essential to follow your diabetes management plan, which includes:
- Regularly monitoring blood sugar levels and adjusting insulin or oral diabetes medications as needed
- Eating a balanced diet and managing carbohydrate intake
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Managing stress and practicing self-care
- Regularly checking in with your healthcare provider and keeping up with routine appointments
Frequently Asked Questions about Diabetic Emergencies.
Can non-diabetic people experience hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia?
Although hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are most commonly associated with diabetes, it is possible for non-diabetic individuals to experience these conditions. In rare cases, certain medications, illnesses, or hormonal imbalances can cause blood sugar fluctuations. If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, consult your healthcare provider.
Can diabetic emergencies be life-threatening?
Yes, diabetic emergencies can be life-threatening if not managed promptly and effectively. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, unconsciousness, and even death, while untreated hyperglycemia can result in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), both of which are potentially fatal.
How can I help someone experiencing a diabetic emergency?
If you suspect someone is experiencing a diabetic emergency, first determine whether it is hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
If the person is conscious and coherent, ask them to check their blood sugar levels. For hypoglycemia, help the person consume a fast-acting carbohydrate, and monitor their condition.
For hyperglycemia, encourage the person to drink water and seek medical attention if their blood sugar levels do not improve or worsen. In both cases, it is essential to remain calm and supportive throughout the process.
References, Sources and Studies:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypoglycemia/
Owner, entrepreneur, and health enthusiast.
Chris is one of the Co-Founders of Diabetic.org. An entrepreneur at heart, Chris has been building and writing in consumer health for over 10 years. In addition to Diabetic.org, Chris and his Acme Health LLC Brand Team own and operate Pharmacists.org, Multivitamin.org, PregnancyResource.org, and the USA Rx Pharmacy Discount Card powered by Pharmacists.org.
Chris has a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) designation and is a proud member of the American Medical Writer’s Association (AMWA), the International Society for Medical Publication Professionals (ISMPP), the National Association of Science Writers (NASW), the Council of Science Editors, the Author’s Guild, and the Editorial Freelance Association (EFA).
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