Hyperglycemia

What is the blood sugar range for hyperglycemia?

Which hormone is released during stress and illness, contributing to increased glucose levels?

What are the symptoms of hyperglycemia related to excess glucose in the serum?

What is the blood glucose level defining hypoglycemia?

What can cause hypoglycemia?

What are the initial signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia caused by activation of the sympathetic nervous system?

What can chronically high blood glucose levels lead to?

What is one of the treatments for hyperglycemia in diabetic patients?

What is one of the daily medications used to assist with the management of blood glucose levels and lower HbA1C?

What can repeated episodes of hypoglycemia or extremely low blood glucose levels cause?

What is the body attempting to do when symptoms of hyperglycemia occur?

What is the primary hormone involved in hypoglycemia?

Hyperglycemia

Blood sugar levels for hyperglycemia are typically defined as greater than 130 mg/dL (7.2 mmol/L) when fasting or above 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L) after meals.
Cortisol is released during stress and illness, which raises glucose levels in the bloodstream.
Symptoms of hyperglycemia can include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches due to high serum glucose.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is defined as a blood glucose level below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L).
Causes of hypoglycemia can include diabetes medications, prolonged fasting, excessive alcohol consumption, missed meals, or hormonal deficiencies.
Initial symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, trembling, anxiety, increased heart rate, and hunger, primarily due to sympathetic nervous system activation.

Consequences of Hyperglycemia

Chronically high blood glucose levels can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and vision problems, collectively termed diabetic complications.

Treatments and Management

One treatment for hyperglycemia in diabetic patients includes the use of insulin to help lower blood glucose levels.
Metformin is a common medication used daily to manage blood glucose levels and reduce HbA1C.

Effects of Recurrent Hypoglycemia

Repeated episodes of hypoglycemia can result in hypoglycemia unawareness, where the body becomes less sensitive to the warning signs of low blood sugar.
During hyperglycemia symptoms, the body attempts to eliminate excess glucose through increased urination and signals for hydration.

Hormonal Regulation

Insulin is the primary hormone involved in reducing blood glucose levels, while glucagon and cortisol can increase glucose levels in response to hypoglycemia.

Test your knowledge about hyperglycemia and its causes, symptoms, and management with this quiz. Learn about the ideal blood sugar ranges and the potential long-term complications of chronically high glucose levels.