What are the common causes of high blood sugar. How can you recognize the symptoms of hyperglycemia. What are effective strategies for managing and preventing high blood sugar levels. How does lifestyle impact blood glucose control. When should you seek medical help for hyperglycemia.

The Basics of Hyperglycemia: Defining High Blood Sugar

Hyperglycemia, often referred to as high blood sugar, occurs when glucose levels in the bloodstream exceed normal ranges. For most individuals, this means blood glucose levels above 7 mmol/l before meals or above 8.5 mmol/l two hours after eating. This condition arises when the body either cannot produce sufficient insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it does produce to process blood sugar.

What constitutes hyperglycemia?

Blood glucose levels are considered high when they exceed:

• 7 mmol/l (126 mg/dL) before meals
• 8.5 mmol/l (153 mg/dL) two hours after meals

These thresholds may vary slightly depending on individual circumstances and medical guidance. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial for identifying hyperglycemic episodes and managing diabetes effectively.

Common Causes of Hyperglycemia: Unraveling the Triggers

Several factors can contribute to elevated blood sugar levels. Understanding these causes is essential for effective management and prevention of hyperglycemia.

Why does blood sugar rise?

High blood sugar can result from various factors, including:

1. Missed medication doses
2. Consuming more carbohydrates than the body or medication can handle
3. Stress
4. Illness or infection
5. Over-treatment of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
6. Hormonal changes
7. Lack of physical activity
8. Certain medications

It’s important to note that sometimes blood sugar levels may rise due to factors beyond an individual’s immediate control. Regular monitoring and consultation with healthcare providers can help identify patterns and adjust management strategies accordingly.

Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms of Hyperglycemia

Identifying the symptoms of high blood sugar is crucial for timely intervention and management. While mild hyperglycemia may not present noticeable symptoms, as blood glucose levels continue to rise, various signs may become apparent.

What are the telltale signs of high blood sugar?

Common symptoms of hyperglycemia include:

• Increased urination, especially at night
• Excessive thirst
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Recurring infections (e.g., thrush, bladder infections)
• Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea

It’s important to note that these symptoms typically develop gradually as blood sugar levels rise. This slow onset can sometimes make it challenging to recognize hyperglycemia until glucose levels are significantly elevated. Regular blood sugar testing is key to catching high levels early.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Blood Sugar in Check

Preventing hyperglycemia is a crucial aspect of diabetes management. By implementing certain lifestyle changes and maintaining vigilant monitoring, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of experiencing high blood sugar episodes.

How can you prevent hyperglycemia?

Effective strategies for preventing high blood sugar include:

1. Regular blood glucose monitoring
2. Carbohydrate counting and portion control
3. Choosing low glycemic index (GI) foods
4. Increasing dietary fiber intake
5. Maintaining a healthy weight
6. Engaging in regular physical activity
7. Taking medications as prescribed
8. Managing stress levels
9. Getting adequate sleep

Implementing these strategies can help maintain more stable blood sugar levels and reduce the frequency of hyperglycemic episodes. It’s important to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized prevention plan tailored to individual needs and circumstances.

Lifestyle Modifications: The Power of Diet and Exercise

Lifestyle changes play a pivotal role in managing blood sugar levels and preventing hyperglycemia. By focusing on diet and exercise, individuals can significantly impact their glucose control and overall health.

How does diet influence blood sugar levels?

Dietary choices have a direct impact on blood glucose. Key considerations include:

• Carbohydrate awareness: Understanding the carbohydrate content of foods and their effect on blood sugar
• Glycemic index: Opting for low GI foods that cause a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar
• Fiber intake: Increasing consumption of high-fiber foods to slow carbohydrate digestion and stabilize blood sugar
• Portion control: Managing serving sizes to avoid overconsumption of carbohydrates
• Balanced meals: Including a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats in each meal

What role does exercise play in blood sugar management?

Regular physical activity is crucial for blood sugar control. Exercise benefits include:

• Improved insulin sensitivity: Helping the body use insulin more effectively
• Enhanced glucose uptake: Muscles can absorb glucose from the bloodstream more efficiently during and after exercise
• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight promotes better overall glucose control
• Stress reduction: Physical activity can help manage stress, which can indirectly affect blood sugar levels

Incorporating a combination of aerobic exercise and strength training into a regular routine can have significant positive effects on blood sugar management. It’s important to consult with healthcare providers to develop a safe and effective exercise plan, especially for individuals with diabetes-related complications.

Medication Management: Ensuring Proper Treatment

Proper medication management is a cornerstone of effective blood sugar control for individuals with diabetes. Adhering to prescribed treatment regimens and understanding how to adjust medications when necessary are crucial skills for managing hyperglycemia.

Why is medication adherence important?

Consistently taking diabetes medications as prescribed is vital for several reasons:

• Maintains stable blood sugar levels
• Prevents complications associated with chronic hyperglycemia
• Reduces the risk of acute hyperglycemic episodes
• Supports overall health and well-being

Skipping doses or not taking medications correctly can lead to blood sugar fluctuations and increase the risk of hyperglycemia. It’s crucial to work closely with healthcare providers to understand the proper use of all prescribed medications, including insulin and oral diabetes drugs.

How should medications be adjusted during illness?

During periods of illness, blood sugar management can become more challenging. Key considerations include:

• Continuing to take diabetes medications even when not eating
• Monitoring blood sugar levels more frequently
• Following any “sick day rules” provided by healthcare teams
• Staying hydrated with sugar-free fluids
• Contacting healthcare providers if blood sugar remains consistently high or if ketones are present in the blood or urine

Having a clear plan for medication management during illness can help prevent severe hyperglycemia and reduce the risk of complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Monitoring and Management: Tools for Blood Sugar Control

Effective blood sugar management relies heavily on regular monitoring and the use of various tools and techniques. Understanding how to track glucose levels and respond to high readings is essential for maintaining optimal health.

What are the best methods for monitoring blood sugar?

Several options are available for blood glucose monitoring:

• Traditional fingerstick tests: Provide immediate blood sugar readings
• Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs): Offer real-time glucose data throughout the day and night
• A1C tests: Provide an average of blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months

The choice of monitoring method depends on individual needs, preferences, and medical recommendations. Many people use a combination of these tools to gain a comprehensive understanding of their blood sugar patterns.

How should you respond to high blood sugar readings?

When blood glucose levels are elevated, taking prompt action is crucial:

1. Verify the reading: Repeat the test to confirm high blood sugar
2. Check for ketones: If blood sugar is above 15 mmol/l, test for ketones in blood or urine
3. Hydrate: Drink plenty of sugar-free fluids to prevent dehydration
4. Review recent activities: Consider factors that may have contributed to the high reading
5. Adjust medication if necessary: Follow healthcare provider guidelines for insulin or medication adjustments
6. Increase monitoring frequency: Check blood sugar more often until levels stabilize
7. Engage in light exercise: If ketones are not present, gentle physical activity may help lower blood sugar

It’s important to have a clear action plan in place for managing high blood sugar, developed in consultation with healthcare providers. This plan should include specific steps to take based on blood glucose levels and the presence of ketones.

Complications and When to Seek Help: Understanding the Risks

While occasional mild hyperglycemia may not pose immediate danger, persistent or severe high blood sugar can lead to serious complications. Recognizing when to seek medical help is crucial for preventing long-term health issues and acute emergencies.

What are the potential complications of chronic hyperglycemia?

Long-term exposure to high blood sugar can lead to various health issues, including:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Kidney damage (nephropathy)
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Eye problems (retinopathy)
• Foot complications
• Skin and mouth conditions
• Cognitive impairment

These complications underscore the importance of maintaining good blood sugar control over time. Regular check-ups and screenings can help detect and address potential issues early.

When should you contact your healthcare provider about high blood sugar?

Seek medical attention if:

• Blood sugar remains consistently above 10 mmol/l despite following your management plan
• You experience symptoms of severe hyperglycemia (extreme thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting)
• Ketones are present in your blood or urine
• You’re unable to keep fluids down due to nausea or vomiting
• You have signs of dehydration (dry mouth, decreased urination, dizziness)
• You develop symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), such as fruity-smelling breath, confusion, or difficulty breathing

Prompt medical intervention can prevent the progression of hyperglycemia to more serious conditions like DKA, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Emotional Well-being and Stress Management: The Mind-Body Connection

The relationship between emotional well-being, stress, and blood sugar control is significant. Managing stress and prioritizing mental health can have a positive impact on overall diabetes management and reduce the risk of hyperglycemic episodes.

How does stress affect blood sugar levels?

Stress can influence blood glucose in several ways:

• Hormonal changes: Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can raise blood sugar levels
• Behavioral impacts: Stress may lead to poor eating habits, reduced physical activity, or medication non-adherence
• Sleep disruption: Chronic stress can affect sleep quality, which in turn can impact blood sugar control

Recognizing the connection between stress and blood sugar is an important step in developing effective management strategies.

What techniques can help manage stress and improve blood sugar control?

Several stress-reduction techniques can be beneficial:

1. Mindfulness meditation
2. Deep breathing exercises
3. Regular physical activity
4. Adequate sleep hygiene
5. Cognitive-behavioral therapy
6. Social support and connection
7. Time management and prioritization
8. Engaging in enjoyable hobbies or activities

Incorporating these techniques into daily life can help reduce stress levels and potentially improve blood sugar management. It’s important to find methods that work best for individual preferences and lifestyles.

By understanding the various aspects of hyperglycemia management, from recognizing symptoms to implementing lifestyle changes and stress reduction techniques, individuals with diabetes can take proactive steps to maintain better blood sugar control. Regular communication with healthcare providers, consistent monitoring, and a commitment to overall health and well-being are key components of successful diabetes management. Remember that managing blood sugar is an ongoing process, and it’s normal to experience occasional fluctuations. The goal is to develop strategies that work for you in the long term, promoting optimal health and reducing the risk of complications associated with chronic hyperglycemia.

Hyperglycaemia (Hypers) | High Blood Sugar

Hyperglycaemia, or a hyper, can happen when your blood glucose (sugar) levels are too high – usually above 7mmol/l before a meal and above 8.5mmol/l two hours after a meal.

This happens because the body either cannot produce enough insulin to process the sugar in the blood or it cannot use the insulin effectively enough.

What causes hyperglycaemia?

There are several reasons why your blood sugar levels may be too high. It may be that:

• you have missed a dose of your medication
• you have eaten more carbohydrates than either your body or medication, or both, can cope with
• you’re stressed
• you’re unwell from an infection
• you have over-treated a hypo
• your body is reacting to something you may not be aware of.

Overeating and not moving enough can also lead to high levels of blood sugar. Maintaining high levels of blood sugar makes it even more difficult for your body to produce the insulin needed to process it.

Signs and symptoms of hyperglycaemia

When your blood sugar levels are slightly higher than normal, you will not usually experience any symptoms. But as they rise, symptoms may include:

• passing more urine than normal, especially at night
• being very thirsty
• tiredness and lethargy
• thrush or other recurring bladder and skin infections
• headaches
• blurred vision
• weight loss
• feeling sick.

Symptoms of hyperglycaemia build up slowly over time as your sugar levels rise, meaning you may not notice them until your blood glucose is very high, at which point you should take action straight away to reduce your blood sugar levels.

How to prevent hyperglycaemia 

and lower your blood sugar levels

Testing your blood sugar levels regularly can help you spot the signs of hyperglycaemia. But there are some steps you can take to either prevent a hyper from happening or to bring down your blood sugar levels.

You can start by making sure you are aware of your carbohydrate portions and how they may be affecting your blood sugar levels after eating. Carb counting is one of the ways you can manage this. Avoid foods that have a high glycemic index (GI) and choose low GI foods that can help manage your blood sugar levels more effectively. Increase the fibre in your diet. This can help slow down carbohydrate digestion, which can help limit the rise in your blood sugars.

Try to maintain a healthy weight as this promotes regular blood sugar levels in the body. Be as active as possible, regular exercise can help your body process more of the sugar.

Remember to take your insulin and other diabetes medication, and always take them correctly. Continue to take your diabetes medication even if you are ill and not eating.

Concentrate on your emotional wellbeing, get a quality night’s sleep and find ways to manage your stress. Stress can cause hormones to be released, which keep your blood sugar levels high.

If your blood sugar levels continue to be high, or you’re unsure of what to do, contact your doctor for further guidance.

Can drinking a lot of water lower your blood sugar levels?

Although feeling very thirsty is a symptom of a hyper, drinking a lot of water will not bring your blood sugar levels down. It will only help to reduce your risk of dehydration.

It’s important that you take your diabetes medication to bring your blood sugar levels down. If you have consistently high blood sugar levels, you will need to follow the advice below and speak to your diabetes healthcare team.

Treating and managing hyperglycaemia

If your blood sugar level is slightly high for a short time, emergency treatment won’t be necessary. But if it continues to rise you may need to act fast to avoid developing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

If your blood sugar level is 15 mmol/l or more, you should check your blood or urine for ketones. If ketones are present, it is likely that you do not have enough insulin in your body. This means you may need to increase your dose or give yourself an extra dose. Talk to your diabetes team about how to do this if you are unsure.

You should also try to drink plenty of sugar-free fluids to prevent dehydration. And if you are feeling unwell, especially if you are vomiting, you should follow any ‘sick day rules’ you have been given and contact your diabetes healthcare team for advice.

If you regularly have high blood sugar levels

Having high blood sugar levels regularly is not something you should live with. This is because in the long-term it can increase your risk of developing diabetes complications, such as neuropathy and retinopathy.

If you notice that your blood sugar levels are often high, (above 10mmol) you should contact your diabetes healthcare team. They will review your treatment and provide you with advice on how to get your blood sugar levels back within your target range. This advice may include increasing your medication.

In the video below, Lynsey talks to Khalida about feeling anxious after getting a high blood sugar level reading. If you’re finding it hard to deal with similar feelings, we’ve got information on emotional health that you may find helpful.

Blood sugar test – blood Information | Mount Sinai

Random blood sugar; Blood sugar level; Fasting blood sugar; Glucose test; Diabetic screening – blood sugar test; Diabetes – blood sugar test

A blood sugar test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood.

Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including brain cells. Glucose is a building block for carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are found in fruit, cereal, bread, pasta, and rice. Carbohydrates are quickly turned into glucose in your body. This can raise your blood glucose level.

Hormones made in the body help control blood glucose level.

Blood is drawn from a vein (venipuncture), usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. Preparation may vary depending on the specific test.

How the Test is Performed

A blood sample is needed.

How to Prepare for the Test

The test may be done in the following ways:

• After you have not eaten anything for at least 8 hours (fasting)
• At any time of the day (random)
• Two hours after you drink a certain amount of glucose (oral glucose tolerance test)

How the Test will Feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging. Afterward, there may be some throbbing or slight bruising. This soon goes away.

Why the Test is Performed

Your health care provider may order this test if you have signs of diabetes. More than likely, the provider will order a fasting blood sugar test.

The blood glucose test is also used to monitor people who already have diabetes.

The test may also be done if you have:

• An increase in how often you need to urinate
• Recently gained a lot of weight
• Blurred vision
• Confusion or a change in the way you normally talk or behave
• Fainting spells
• Seizures (for the first time)
• Unconsciousness or coma

SCREENING FOR DIABETES

This test may also be used to screen a person for diabetes.

High blood sugar and diabetes may not cause symptoms in the early stages. A fasting blood sugar test is almost always done to screen for diabetes for all people over age 35. If you have no other diabetes risk factors, you should be tested every 3 years (more often if your weight is rising).

If you’re overweight and have any of the other risk factors below, ask your provider about getting tested at an earlier age and more often:

• High blood sugar level on a previous test
• Blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or higher, or unhealthy cholesterol levels
• History of heart disease
• Member of a high-risk ethnic group (African American, Latino, Native American, Asian American, or Pacific Islander)
• Woman who has been previously diagnosed with gestational diabetes
• Polycystic ovary disease (condition in which a woman has an imbalance of female sex hormones causing cysts in the ovaries)
• Close relative with diabetes (such as a parent, brother, or sister)
• Not physically active

Children age 10 and older who are overweight and have at least two of the risk factors listed above should be tested for type 2 diabetes every 3 years, even if they have no symptoms.

Normal Results

If you had a fasting blood glucose test, a level between 70 and 100 mg/dL (3.9 and 5.6 mmol/L) is considered normal.

If you had a random blood glucose test, a normal result depends on when you last ate. Most of the time, the blood glucose level will be 125 mg/dL (6.9 mmol/L) or lower.

The examples above show the common measurements for results of these tests. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or may test different specimens. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results.

Blood glucose measured by a blood test from a vein is considered more accurate than blood glucose measured from a fingerstick with a blood glucose meter, or blood glucose measured by a continuous glucose monitor.

What Abnormal Results Mean

If you had a fasting blood glucose test:

• A level of 100 to 125 mg/dL (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L) means you have impaired fasting glucose, a type of prediabetes. This increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and you should consult with your provider.
• A level of 126 mg/dL (7 mmol/L) or higher usually means you have diabetes.

If you had a random blood glucose test:

• A level of 200 mg/dL (11 mmol/L) or higher often means you have diabetes.
• Your provider will order a fasting blood glucose, A1C test, or glucose tolerance test, depending on your random blood glucose test result.
• In someone who has diabetes, an abnormal result on the random blood glucose test may mean that the diabetes is not well controlled. Talk with your provider about your blood glucose goals if you have diabetes.

Other medical problems can also cause a higher-than-normal blood glucose level, including:

• Overactive thyroid gland
• Pancreatic cancer
• Swelling and inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
• Stress due to trauma, stroke, heart attack, or surgery
• Rare tumors, including pheochromocytoma, acromegaly, Cushing syndrome, or glucagonoma

A lower-than-normal blood glucose level (hypoglycemia) may be due to:

• Hypopituitarism (a pituitary gland disorder)
• Underactive thyroid gland or adrenal gland
• Tumor in the pancreas (insulinoma – very rare)
• Too little food
• Too much insulin or other diabetes medicines
• Liver or kidney disease
• Weight loss after weight loss surgery
• Vigorous exercise

Some medicines can raise or lower your blood glucose level. Before having the test, tell your provider about all the medicines you are taking.

For some thin young women, a fasting blood sugar level below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) may be normal.

Risks

There is little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins and arteries vary in size from one person to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight, but may include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting or feeling lightheaded
• Multiple punctures to locate veins
• Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
• Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)

American Diabetes Association. 2. Classification and Diagnosis of Diabetes: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2022. Diabetes Care. 2022. diabetesjournals.org/care/article/45/Supplement_1/S17/138925/2-Classification-and-Diagnosis-of-Diabetes. Accessed April 22, 2022.

US Preventive Services Task Force, Davidson KW, Barry MJ, Mangione CM, et al. Screening for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. JAMA. 2021;326(8):736-743. PMID: 34427594 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34427594/.

Last reviewed on: 1/9/2022

Reviewed by: Robert Hurd, MD, Professor of Endocrinology and Health Care Ethics, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Diabetes mellitus: rumors and reality

Diabetes mellitus, one of the few diseases around which various rumors and fictions have always spread, in which ignorance, ignorance, misunderstanding and . .. perhaps a pinch of truth are closely intertwined. Never underestimate the destructive power of these myths to influence sick people and often prevent them from changing and improving their quality of life.

The problems around diabetes affect many aspects of life. We offer debunking some of the most common rumors about diabetes.

Alcohol and fried foods

Diabetics are deprived of the joy of having a good time with friends over a glass of beer and fried sausages – they are strictly forbidden alcohol and fried foods. The statement is not accurate.

Many people mistakenly believe that alcohol raises blood sugar levels and is therefore dangerous for diabetics. But another statement is also true: alcohol in pure forms and, naturally, in small quantities, affects the ability of the liver to produce sugar, which in turn leads to a decrease in blood glucose levels. It is clear that you need to drink in small doses and not on an empty stomach. In addition, smoothies should be avoided, especially those containing fruit juices and high-sugar energy drinks.

Diabetes is a disease of wealthy people

Only wealthy people who can afford hearty high-calorie food get sick with diabetes. Absolutely wrong opinion.

Communication is nothing more than indirect. Indeed, studies note a strong link between extreme obesity and diabetes. In the past, when delicious, high-calorie meals and desserts were reserved only for the wealthy, obesity and diabetes often coexisted, and were common among the more affluent. Today, however, the situation has completely changed. People from lower economic classes are more likely to develop diabetes. The reason is that poor people buy cheaper food, which is saturated with fats and salts used in the food industry to extend the shelf life of products. In addition, ill-heeled people tend to exercise little or keep their shape, which contributes to an increase in obesity. In addition, one of the reasons why diabetes was declared the plague of the 21st century was the steady increase in the proportion of people with diabetes among developing countries in Asia and Africa. One of the apparent reasons was the influence of modern Western food culture,
based on cheap fast food, on the economy of poor countries.

Diabetes and flu

People with diabetes are more likely to get the flu. Wrong statement.

There is no scientific evidence for this fact. But on the other hand, doctors recommend that all diabetics make a mandatory flu vaccination. Any disease weakens the body of a diabetic even more and complicates the treatment, because due to the use of various medications, it is difficult to balance the level of sugar in the blood. It is also known that diabetics who have had influenza are at risk of complications of diabetes.

Diabetic diet

The recommended diet for diabetics should consist mainly of starchy foods such as bread, potatoes and pasta. Not true.

Foods rich in starch can and should be included in a balanced diet, but it is important to understand that accuracy in portion sizes is required. Bread, cereals, pasta and rice can be part of the meal, as well as starchy vegetables such as potatoes, beans and corn. In addition to this, diabetics should also include fruits, dairy products, and sweets in their diet as a source of carbohydrates that help a healthy lifestyle. In fact, diabetics can eat a variety of foods if they are consumed in moderation. In any case, the patient must first of all consult with a specialist in this field.

Obesity and diabetes

Anyone who is overweight will sooner or later develop type 2 diabetes. False statement

Being overweight is definitely a risk factor for diabetes. But there are other risk factors, such as family history of the disease (genetic predisposition), ethnicity, age, which also play an important role. Unfortunately, many people tend to ignore these risk factors and think that being overweight is the only indicator of disease. In fact, many people who are obese do not have diabetes, and some diabetics have a perfectly normal body weight.

Blood sugar levels

Diabetics always feel that their sugar levels are abnormal. Not true.

An increase in blood sugar is not always felt in any special way. Excessive drinking, increased urination, dizziness and nausea can occur for a variety of other reasons. Blood sugar testing is the only accurate and safe test available today.

Sweet foods cause diabetes

Excessive consumption of sugary foods causes diabetes. Not true.

One of the most widespread myths. It is important to understand the difference between the two types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes mellitus (young diabetes) is caused by a genetic predisposition, and the mechanism of its occurrence has not yet been fully deciphered by scientists. Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of several factors, including genetic predisposition, overeating, and unhealthy lifestyle. Increased sugar intake leads to obesity and insulin resistance, and can indirectly lead to the development of diabetes. On the other hand, there are people who consume huge amounts of sugar, but at the same time lead a physically active lifestyle, which allows them to maintain a normal body weight. The risk of developing diabetes in this group of people will be much lower than in those who consume a lot of carbohydrates and lead a sedentary lifestyle. In addition, some medical studies point to a link between sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, obesity, and the development of diabetes. Therefore, doctors do not recommend drinking any sugary drinks, carbonated or non-carbonated, whose nutritional value is more than 150 calories in a small jar.

Insulin and Diabetes

If your doctor has prescribed insulin injections for you, this is the end of the road. Not true.

Diabetes is today defined as a complex chronic disease. There are many therapies that allow people with diabetes to take control of their lives and make them easier and more balanced. Insulin injections are prescribed today and in the early stages of diabetes, and there is absolutely no reason to believe that insulin injections indicate the severity of the disease. In the treatment of both types of diabetes, medical specialists combine comprehensive, well-balanced treatments. These methods may include various types of treatment: insulin therapy, special nutrition programs and exercise therapy. Only when doctors see that these methods are not effective and do not give the desired result, they recommend surgery.

Diabetes in position Encyclopedia of IVF Clinics

An endocrinologist of the Moscow city ​​center “Diabetes” Olga Mikhailovna KOTESHKOVA.

Olga Mikhailovna KOTESHKOVA, an endocrinologist at the Diabetes Moscow City Center, tells a correspondent of the Women’s Health magazine (5/2000) about how a pregnant woman with diabetes should behave so that the disease does not affect the development and health of the child. :

— How does pregnancy affect the course of diabetes?

— Getting pregnant, bearing and giving birth to a healthy baby while suffering from diabetes is a real feat. After all, the life of a person suffering from diabetes is already very difficult. He constantly needs the introduction of insulin, he must adjust the level of sugar in the blood. And in a pregnant woman, this need for additional insulin begins to change significantly, which affects both her condition and the development of the child. During this period, disease control should be especially strict.

It happens like this: diabetes mellitus, which previously did not manifest itself in any way, is first detected during pregnancy. This type of diabetes is called gestational diabetes. Fortunately, glucose metabolism usually returns to its previous state after childbirth. But not always.

— How do fluctuations in blood sugar levels affect a child?

– He primarily suffers from an excess or lack of glucose in the mother. An increase in her sugar level inevitably leads to an excess supply of glucose to the fetus. If this occurs before the eighth week of pregnancy, birth defects may develop. The lack of glucose, if it happened too often, can cause intrauterine growth retardation.

And with a very sharp drop in blood sugar, even for a short time, the fetus may die. A miscarriage is also possible with a large excess of sugar in the blood.

If the mother’s glucose level is higher than normal in the second half of pregnancy, this leads to the formation of excess fat deposits in the fetus. Therefore, mothers with diabetes often have very large babies.

Diabetes mellitus can also be accompanied by polyhydramnios, that is, excess amniotic fluid in a pregnant woman. This also creates certain difficulties in the development of the child and aggravates the condition of the pregnant woman.

With a frequent increase in sugar levels, there is a delay in the maturation of the lungs in the fetus. If the mother’s diabetes has not been compensated for throughout the pregnancy, the child born may die after childbirth.

— What should I do if a woman diagnosed with diabetes wants to have a baby? Not to refuse it completely?

— Of course not. As they say, everything is in our hands. All complications have only one cause – an abnormal level of glucose in the blood. Therefore, there is only one way out – relentless control, control and again control. Correction of blood sugar with the help of insulin must be carried out constantly. Then everything will go well.

A woman with diabetes who is preparing to become a mother should clearly realize that if before it was possible to manage with a diet and sugar-lowering drugs, then with the onset of pregnancy, she will definitely have to take insulin. Regardless of whether she suffers from type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It is strictly forbidden for a pregnant woman with diabetes to take sugar-lowering drugs! The fact is that they are capable of causing malformations, therefore, for the sake of the safety of the child, doctors insist on abandoning him. After childbirth, it is often possible to refuse insulin and return to the previous means. Therefore, there is no need to be afraid to switch to insulin.

– When should you start enhanced blood sugar control – probably even before conception?

– Absolutely. In this situation, more than ever, pregnancy must be planned in advance. You need to carefully prepare for it. First of all, a month or two before conception, strictly control the level of sugar in the blood. You need to do this at least four times a day. If you have never used insulin before, learn how to do it and gradually switch to its use.

Conception should be approached with well compensated diabetes. If there are concomitant diseases, it is necessary to carry out appropriate treatment even before conception.

— How to behave later when the pregnancy has already been confirmed?

– From the moment of the alleged conception, even if the pregnancy has not yet been confirmed, control must be tightened. During the first 13 weeks of pregnancy, blood sugar should be monitored frequently – preferably eight times a day. Before meals and two hours after it, as well as at night and at 4-5 in the morning. Even a short-term excess of blood glucose levels should not be allowed. After the 14th week of pregnancy, you need to control sugar at least four times a day.

— How realistic is it to take such frequent measurements?

– It is not possible to examine sugar so often in the clinic, besides, it is too long to wait for the result. And you need an answer here and now. Therefore, you simply cannot do without a glucometer or test strips. Modern methods allow you to find out the concentration of glucose in the blood anywhere at any time. And in a matter of seconds, without resorting to the help of a doctor.

And if at other times it was still possible to do without daily self-control, then during pregnancy you should forget about it. This means risking not only your own health, but also the health of your unborn child. Be patient. The end, more than ever, justifies the means. It’s better to save money on diapers later than on glucometer strips during pregnancy. You will regret it for the rest of your life.

In the first trimester, due to sudden and unexpected changes in blood sugar levels and the danger of a drop in glucose levels, it is better to use a glucometer. Its measurements are more accurate. Test strips can also be used in the second and third trimesters. They are significantly cheaper.

— What should a pregnant woman do if she discovers that her sugar is not normal?

– First of all, you need to know the norm of blood plasma glucose, which for pregnant women on an empty stomach is 3.3-5 mmol / l. One hour after a meal, the level should not exceed 7.8 mmol / l. Two hours later – no higher than 6.7 mmol / l. If there is a deviation, immediately normalize the glucose level. With an increase in blood sugar, short-acting insulin should be administered. If the sugar level, on the contrary, has fallen, drink sweet tea, juice or eat a spoonful of honey.

If this happens, you will need to change your insulin dose later. You need to learn how to do this quickly and independently. In addition to measuring the glucose level, you will have to pass a special analysis – to examine the level of glycated hemoglobin in the clinic. This must be done monthly.

— Besides insulin, how can you help?

— It is very important to watch your diet. It should be fractional, preferably six times a day. You need three main meals – breakfast, lunch, dinner – and three snacks – second breakfast, afternoon snack and before bed. The diet during pregnancy does not differ from the usual diet recommended for patients with diabetes. Your diet should contain more fruits and berries, less bread, potatoes. If there is an increase in body weight out of proportion to the development of pregnancy, reduce the number of grain units consumed per day. Do not forget about physical activity, walk more in the fresh air, preferably one and a half to two hours a day.

— What should I do if I often vomit at the beginning of pregnancy? “This situation really needs special attention. The fact is that during vomiting, part of the sugars taken with food is lost. Therefore, you need to strengthen control over your health so that precautionary measures are not in vain. You should:

Reduce your insulin dose before your next meal and check your blood sugar two hours later. If necessary, you need to additionally inject insulin; vomiting is also dangerous due to the fact that the body is dehydrated. Therefore, if this happens, drink unsweetened tea or juice, increasing the dose of liquid, taking into account the “lost liters”; if vomiting occurs, inform the gynecologist about this and consult how to reduce the likelihood of its occurrence next time; if you feel severe weakness, frequent heartbeat, dry mouth occurs, this indicates an increase in sugar levels. With these signs, as well as the appearance of acetone in the urine, dehydration, call an ambulance – you need hospitalization. You can’t delay in such a situation, it is dangerous not only for your health, but can lead to complications for the child.0003

— Where can a woman with diabetes go who decides to have a baby?

– It is better if the observation of a pregnant woman with diabetes mellitus is carried out in special centers. Endocrinologists-diabetologists, gynecologists, nephrologists, ophthalmologists who have sufficient experience in managing such patients work there.

A pregnant woman should not be surprised that she will have to do an ultrasound examination of the condition of the fetus more often than other women: at least five times during pregnancy. At a period of 3-6 weeks, ultrasound is performed to accurately confirm the fact of pregnancy. At 15-20 weeks, it is necessary to exclude significant malformations in the fetus.

Then, at 20-23 weeks, the child’s heart is examined: at this time, violations of its structure are already clearly visible. Once again, you will have to undergo the procedure at 28-32 weeks to determine if the size of the fetus is increased, if there is a developmental delay. And, finally, immediately before childbirth – to resolve the issue of the method of delivery.

At 37-39 weeks of gestation, women with diabetes are usually hospitalized even if they are well.