• Point to Remember
Controlling diabetes means maintaining blood glucose (blood sugar) levels within certain limits. These limits will be specified by your physician or health professional. Following are common symptoms and treatments of low and high blood sugars. These lists are designed to help you monitor the success of your treatment plan and to identify when your diabetes is out of control.
| |
Hypoglycemia
(Low Blood Sugar) |
Hyperglycemia
(Severe High Blood Sugar) |
| Can Happen To: |
Persons using oral medications or insulin |
Any person with diabetes |
| It Occurs: |
Gradually or within minutes |
Gradually, over days |
| Blood Tests: |
< 60 mg/dl Blood Sugar |
> 300 mg/dl Blood Sugar |
| Urine Tests: |
Negative |
Positive with occasional ketones |
| Symptoms: |
Tiredness
Weakness
Nausea
Blurred Vision
Headache
Tingling
Sweating
Hunger
Confusion
Nervousness
Pounding Heart
Stupor
Loss of Consciousness |
Thirst
Frequent Urination
Drowsiness
Nausea/Vomiting
Headache
Dim Vision
Dry Skin
Rapid Breathing
Fruity Odor
Loss of Consciousness |
| Treatment: |
Eat or drink something with sugar
Inject Glucagon
Call your physician if symptoms occur |
Call your physician
Drink plenty of water |
• Sick Day Rules
Diabetes varies per person, and each person reacts differently when ill. Only your physician/health professional can tell you what to watch for. The following guidelines may be useful:
• Any illness lasting more than 24 to 48 hours should be immediately reported to your physician.
• Even if your are unable to tolerate much food, you must continue to take your prescribed medications. Illnesses increase the need for insulin and raise the blood sugar level.
• When the appetite is poor, emphasize carbohydrate foods such as starches, breads, fruits, juices to help maintain your blood sugar.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration that can occur with diabetic illnesses.
• Consume concentrated sweets and sugars only in small amount and only to increase caloric intake (if needed).
• If vomiting and diarrhea occur, include broths, juices and regular carbonated beverages to replace lost electrolytes.
• Test your blood sugar frequently (3-4 times a day), especially if you regularly take oral medication or insulin.
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