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
- Not eating as many carbohydrates as you usually do
- Being more active or exercising more than usual
- Taking more insulin or diabetes medication than your body needs
- Drinking alcohol
Your blood sugar levels are too low if they are less than 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 these symptoms
- 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 to 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 to 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 (hyperglycemia) there are other variables to consider:
- Sickness or stress level
- Types of foods and the amount eaten
- Medication management
Anything over 11 mmol/L is considered to be a high blood sugar level, which 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. But, 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.
