Signs and symptoms of high blood sugar (Hyperglycemia)
If you have any of the following symptoms, talk to your doctor and have your blood sugar tested:
- Frequent urination
- Extreme thirst
- Frequent infections
- Tiredness
- Blurred vision
Not everyone gets these symptoms when blood sugars are high. Even if you feel well, you need to see your doctor if your blood sugars are often over 10.0. When left untreated, diabetes causes damage to the eyes, heart, kidneys and feet. It can also make life uncomfortable.
Signs, symptoms and treatment of low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) include:
- Trembling
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Sudden headache
- Hunger
- Confusion
- Difficulty speaking
These are a few of the signs and symptoms people experience. If you are not sure what is wrong, test your blood sugar.
Treating hypoglycemia
If your blood sugar is less than 4.0, or if you feel symptoms of a low blood sugar and cannot test, take ONE of these fast acting sugar food items:
- Three-quarters (¾) of a cup juice or pop containing sugar
- Five hard candies
- Eight jelly beans
- Three teaspoons or three packets of sugar
After about 15 minutes, the sugar will have moved into your blood. Check your blood sugar again to make sure it is 4.0 or more. If it is still less than 4.0, take another dose of fast-acting sugar.
Once your blood sugar is more than 4.0, you need to have a snack or you can have your regular meal if it is mealtime.
Recommended snacks would include protein and a food that turns into sugar in the body, such as peanut butter on a slice of bread or cheese and crackers.
The snack or meal will help to keep the blood sugar from going below 4.0 again.
If you are having lows more than once or twice per week, or if you don’t know why the lows are happening, talk to your doctor or a diabetes educator. You may need your medications changed to keep you safe and healthy.