WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HYPOGLYCEMIA OR LOW BLOOD SUGAR?
It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of both hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) because a diabetic is at risk for both and are very serious conditions that require immediate medical attention.
As a caregiver recognize the symptoms of low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia is the medication term for Low blood sugar can occur if a diabetic eats too little or takes too much insulin. As a caregiver, it is important for you to recognize the symptoms so you can help your loved one correct low blood sugar by eating a snack or drinking juice. Symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Agitation
- Shaking
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Confusion
- Altered behavior
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
DIABETES – WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HYPERGLYCEMIA OR HIGH BLOOD SUGAR?
As a caregiver recognize the symptoms of high blood sugar. High blood sugar can occur when a diabetic eats more than usual, forgets to take insulin, or is sick. If you recognize the symptoms you can help your loved one make adjustments to insulin treatments as necessary. Symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Exhaustion
- Blurry vision
- Dry mouth
- Thirst
- More frequent urination
- A yeast infection
Can develop DKA (see below) a severe and life-threatening complication of hyperglycemia
WHAT IS DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS – DKA?
Diabetic Ketoacidosis, or DKA for short can be life threatening if untreated and requires immediate medical attention and usually hospitalization. DKA is a complication of diabetes that results in excessively high levels of ketones in your blood because your body doesn’t have or doesn’t produce enough insulin.
The symptoms of DKA are the same as the symptoms for hyperglycemia mentioned above but increase in intensity quickly, progressing to shortness of breath, rapid breathing or hyperventilation, vomiting and abdomen pain, hot, dry skin and the hallmark of DKA symptoms – fruity-scented breath. Seek medical attention immediately!
Side note: Diabetic ketoacidosis is not the same as dietary ketosis for those that follow a Ketogenic diet. DKA is often cited as a dangerous side effect of a Keto diet, but those claims are unfounded. In fact, a Ketogenic diet is often recommended by healthcare providers to help control or eliminate diabetes.
Medical Disclaimer
Every attempt has been made using evidence-based practices in research and the use of respected medical journals in print, video or media etc. to provide the latest information available to-date in healthcare. Statements made on this website are my own unless otherwise quoted or referenced. Healthcare is an ever-evolving practice with new research developing daily and an open dialog with your healthcare provider usually promotes the best outcomes. Information found here is not meant to replace that of your provider(s). Statements made regarding supplementation have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because the FDA does not regulation nutritional supplements. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. The material on this website is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning or stopping any new treatment or therapy program. Any designations or references to therapies, specific products etc. are for marketing purposes only and may be sponsored or promoted.