Hypoglycaemia & Hyperglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia & Hyperglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia &  hyperglycaemia as well as type 1 & 2 diabetes, are medical conditions that relate to blood sugar levels. While they share some similarities, there are also important differences between these conditions. That are critical to understand when it comes to diagnosis, treatment, & management. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-hypoglycemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20371525

Hyperglycaemia & hypoglycaemia are two common conditions related to blood sugar levels that close monitoring & management are needed.

It is important to note that both hyperglycaemia & hypoglycaemia can be life-threatening conditions if left untreated. Also, if blood glucose levels remain high or low over an extended period, it can cause long-term damage to vital organs systems, leading to complications such as:

  • Cardiac disease
  • Kidney failure
  • Neuropathy
  • Stroke

 

Hypoglycaemia:

Is a condition in which blood sugar levels drop too low. A low blood sugar level can be dangerous if it’s not treated quickly, but you can usually treat it easily yourself. There are several reasons why this can happen. The most common reason for low blood sugar is a side effect of medications used to treat diabetes.

Symptoms of hypoglycaemia include:

 

  • Shakiness
  • Pale
  • Sweating
  • Palpitations
  • Headaches
  • Tingling or numbness of the lips, tongue or cheek
  • Nervousness
  • Confusion
  • Lethargy
  • fainting
  • In severe cases loss of consciousness
  • Seizures

Causes of hypoglycaemia:

  • This can happen with someone who has diabetes
  • Takes too much insulin or hypoglycaemia medications such as sulfonylureas
  • Doesn’t eat enough or long term starvation
  • Engages in too much physical activity
  • Excessive alcohol drinking or drugs
  • Hormone deficiencies. Certain adrenal gland & pituitary tumour disorders can result in an inadequate amount of certain hormones that regulate glucose production or metabolism
  • Some critical illnesses. Severe liver illnesses such as severe hepatitis or cirrhosis, severe infection, kidney disease, and advanced heart disease can cause hypoglycemia

Treatment of hypoglycaemia:

 

If untreated hypoglycaemia can lead to long-term complications such as cognitive impairment & hypoglycaemia unawareness.

  • For hypoglycaemia, the primary goal is to raise blood glucose levels immediately
  • Someone experiencing mild hypoglycaemia, consuming a fast-acting carbohydrate source such as: fruit juice, candy, or glucose tablets can help raise blood sugar levels
  • It is always important to check blood glucose levels after treatment to ensure they remain stable
  • For severe hypoglycaemia, emergency medical attention may be necessary

 

 

 

Hyperglycaemia:

 

A condition in which blood sugar levels become too high. This is often a result of poor glucose control in someone with diabetes whether due to not taking medication as prescribed or not following a proper diet & exercise routine.

Symptoms of hyperglycaemia:

 

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Fatigue
  • Find it hard to concentrate
  • Feel irritable
  • Blurred vision
  • Dry mouth
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Recurrent infections, such as thrush, bladder infections (cystitis) and skin infections
  • Fruity smelling breath – if your hyperglycaemia gets worse, you might have diabetic ketoacidosis

If left untreated, hyperglycaemia can cause long-term damage to the body’s organs & tissues such as the eyes, kidneys & nerves

 

Causes of hyperglycaemia:

 

  • Insulin resistance
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Other endocrine disorders
  • Consuming foods high in carbohydrates or added sugars
  • Lack of exercise
  • Emotional or physical stress
  • Not following your diabetes eating plan
  • Dehydration
  • Over-treating an episode of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)

Treatment of hyperglycaemia:

 

  • Adjusting medication doses
  • Engaging in regular physical exercise
  • Adopting healthy eating habits to manage blood sugar levels
  • Staying hydrated & avoiding sugary or high-carbohydrate foods can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels
  • In some cases, insulin therapy or other medication may be necessary to manage hyperglycaemia

Summary:

 

Individuals with these conditions, it’s essential they work with their healthcare team and check their blood sugar levels to maintain good glycemic control and prevent complications. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, as well as regular communication with a healthcare provider, can help ensure that blood sugar levels remain stable and reduce the risk of complications.

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as following a balanced diet https://www.nutritionalhealthenterprises.com/health-benefits-of-a-mediterranean-diet/ & engaging in regular exercise, can have a significant impact on managing and preventing blood sugar imbalances. 

 

 

Disclaimer:

All content & media on the Natural Therapy Clinic is created & published online for informational purposes only.
It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. 

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Chris Tompson

Chris Tompson