Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
There are many reasons why blood sugar levels could be low. Some of the most common include:
- Missing meals or not eating at a regular time
- Eating less carbohydrates than usual
- Being more active or exercising more than usual
- Taking more insulin or diabetes medication than the body needs
- Drinking alcohol
Low blood sugar is anything below
4.0 mmol/L
If you feel any of the following symptoms, it’s recommended you test your blood sugar levels right away.
- Headache
- Blurry eyesight
- Hunger
- Irritability
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Fast heartbeat
- Shaking
- Anxiety
- Weak or tired
Blood sugar levels can drop quickly. It’s important to act right away.
- You should check your blood sugar levels if you feel any of the symptoms listed above
- If you can’t check your blood sugar levels, treat the symptom immediately by eating or drinking the appropriate amount of a fast-acting carbohydrate such as:
- 15 grams of glucose from a glucose tablet (preferred choice)
- One tablespoon (three packets) of table sugar, dissolved in water
- ¾ cup of juice or soft drink
- One tablespoon of honey
What next?
- Wait 10–15 minutes after treating symptoms and check blood sugar levels to see if they are back to normal
- If not, treat your symptoms again and wait 45–60 minutes before driving
- Be sure to consult your doctor about changes in your blood sugar levels
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
When it comes to high blood sugar, this could be caused by:
- Sickness or stress level
- Types of foods and the amount eaten
- Medication management
High blood sugar is anything above
11.0 mmol/L
Having high blood sugar levels can cause you to:
- Be thirsty
- Pee more often than usual
- Feel weak or tired
- Be hungry
- Feel nauseous
- Have cramps or stomach pains
While controlling your blood sugar levels is important, if you have type 2 diabetes and a history of heart disease, this may not be enough. There are medications that – along with diet and exercise – have been proven to lower the risk of dying from problems related to your heart and blood vessels.
Talk to your doctor about possible medication options
Feel confident you're getting the most out of your next doctor's appointment by preparing ahead of time. Use this guide as a cheat sheet to help organize your thoughts and questions.
Risk factors for related conditions
Managing your risks for other diseases, including heart disease, can be important for your health.
Understand the risks
