How does blood glucose monitoring work. What are the target ranges for blood sugar levels. Why is regular glucose monitoring crucial for diabetes management. What are the potential complications of high and low blood sugar levels. How to perform a blood glucose test at home. How often should you check your blood sugar levels.

The Fundamentals of Blood Glucose Monitoring

Blood glucose monitoring is a cornerstone of effective diabetes management. It involves regularly testing your blood sugar levels to understand how various factors, such as food, medication, and physical activity, affect your body’s glucose regulation. This vital information helps both you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your diabetes treatment plan.

Portable blood glucose meters, known as glucometers, are the primary tools used for this purpose. These devices analyze a small blood sample, typically obtained from a fingertip, to provide a current blood sugar reading. While a single measurement offers valuable insight, it’s important to note that blood sugar levels fluctuate throughout the day. Therefore, frequent testing and careful record-keeping are essential for a comprehensive understanding of your glucose patterns.

Where to Obtain Blood Glucose Monitoring Kits

• Doctor’s offices
• Diabetes educator’s offices
• Pharmacies
• Online stores

A typical glucose monitoring kit includes the meter itself, testing strips, lancets (small needles for pricking the skin), and a lancing device. Some kits may also provide a logbook for manual record-keeping, while others offer the option to download readings to a computer for digital tracking.

Advanced Features of Modern Glucometers

As technology advances, glucometers have evolved to offer a range of features catering to diverse user needs. These enhancements aim to improve accessibility, convenience, and data management for individuals with diabetes.

• Audio capabilities for visually impaired users
• Backlit screens for low-light conditions
• Expanded memory and data storage
• Preloaded test strips for those with limited hand dexterity
• USB ports for direct data transfer to computers

When selecting a glucometer, consider your specific requirements and discuss options with your healthcare provider to find the most suitable device for your lifestyle and monitoring needs.

The Crucial Role of Regular Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes Management

Regular blood glucose monitoring serves as a powerful tool for individuals with diabetes to gain deeper insights into their condition. By consistently tracking blood sugar levels, you can:

1. Identify patterns and trends in your glucose levels
2. Understand how different foods impact your blood sugar
3. Assess the effectiveness of your medication regimen
4. Evaluate the impact of exercise on your glucose levels
5. Detect and address high or low blood sugar episodes promptly

This wealth of information empowers you to make informed decisions about your diabetes management, ultimately leading to better overall health outcomes and reduced risk of complications.

Target Blood Glucose Ranges

Your healthcare provider will establish personalized target ranges for your blood glucose levels based on various factors, including your age, type of diabetes, overall health, and other individual considerations. While specific targets may vary, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology suggest the following general guidelines:

• Fasting and premeal glucose: 80-130 mg/dL
• Post-prandial (after-meal) glucose: Less than 180 mg/dL

It’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare team to determine your optimal target range and develop strategies to maintain your blood sugar within these parameters.

Potential Complications of Uncontrolled Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining blood glucose levels within your target range is vital for preventing both short-term and long-term complications associated with diabetes. Uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to serious health issues, underscoring the importance of regular monitoring and proper management.

Complications of High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

Persistent high blood sugar levels can result in various long-term complications, including:

• Heart disease
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Vision problems, including diabetic retinopathy
• Poor blood flow, potentially leading to foot ulcers and slow wound healing
• Kidney disease (nephropathy)

Complications of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Low blood sugar can cause immediate symptoms and, if left untreated, may lead to severe complications:

• Confusion and disorientation
• Weakness and fatigue
• Dizziness
• Jitters or trembling
• Excessive sweating
• In severe cases, seizures or coma

Regular blood glucose monitoring helps you detect and address both high and low blood sugar episodes promptly, reducing the risk of these complications and maintaining better overall health.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Blood Glucose Test at Home

Conducting a blood glucose test at home is a straightforward process that can be mastered with practice. Follow these steps to ensure accurate results:

1. Gather your supplies: Glucometer, test strip, lancing device, alcohol swab, and bandage (if needed)
2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to prevent infection
3. Insert a test strip into your glucometer
4. Prepare the lancing device according to the manufacturer’s instructions
5. Clean the chosen fingertip with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry completely
6. Prick the side of your fingertip with the lancing device
7. Gently squeeze your finger to produce a small drop of blood
8. Touch the edge of the test strip to the blood drop, allowing it to be drawn into the strip
9. Wait for the glucometer to analyze the sample and display the result (usually within a minute)
10. Record the reading in your logbook or digital tracking system
11. Apply a bandage if bleeding continues beyond a few drops

Always follow the specific instructions provided with your glucometer to ensure accurate results. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the testing process, consult your healthcare provider or a diabetes educator for guidance.

Recommended Frequency of Blood Glucose Testing

The frequency of blood glucose testing varies depending on the type of diabetes you have, your treatment plan, and your overall health status. Your healthcare provider will provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs.

For Type 1 Diabetes

Individuals with type 1 diabetes typically need to test their blood glucose more frequently:

• At least four times per day, including before and after meals
• Before and after exercise
• Before bedtime
• More often when sick or experiencing stress
• Occasionally during the night, if nocturnal hypoglycemia is a concern

For Type 2 Diabetes

Testing frequency for type 2 diabetes can vary widely based on the individual’s treatment plan:

• Those using insulin may need to test several times a day, similar to individuals with type 1 diabetes
• People managing their diabetes with oral medications or lifestyle changes might test less frequently, such as once or twice a day
• Some may only need to test a few times a week

It’s essential to work closely with your healthcare team to determine the optimal testing schedule for your specific situation. Your provider may recommend more frequent testing during periods of illness, stress, or changes in your treatment plan.

Interpreting Your Blood Glucose Results

Understanding your blood glucose readings is crucial for effective diabetes management. While your healthcare provider will offer personalized guidance, here are some general guidelines for interpreting your results:

Fasting Blood Glucose

• Normal: Less than 100 mg/dL
• Prediabetes: 100-125 mg/dL
• Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher

2 Hours After Eating (Postprandial)

• Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL
• Prediabetes: 140-199 mg/dL
• Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher

Remember that these are general guidelines, and your target ranges may differ based on your individual circumstances. Always consult with your healthcare provider to understand what your specific readings mean and what actions, if any, you should take based on your results.

Factors Affecting Blood Glucose Levels

Numerous factors can influence your blood glucose levels, making regular monitoring essential for understanding these fluctuations. Some key factors include:

• Food intake: Type, quantity, and timing of meals and snacks
• Physical activity: Exercise can lower blood glucose levels
• Medications: Both diabetes-specific and other medications can affect glucose levels
• Stress: Physical or emotional stress can cause blood sugar to rise
• Illness: Infections and other illnesses often lead to elevated blood sugar
• Hormonal changes: Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause can impact glucose levels
• Sleep patterns: Poor sleep or sleep disorders may affect glucose regulation
• Alcohol consumption: Can cause both increases and decreases in blood sugar
• Dehydration: May lead to concentrated blood sugar readings

By consistently monitoring your blood glucose and keeping detailed records, you can begin to identify patterns and understand how these various factors affect your individual glucose levels. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your diabetes management and lifestyle choices.

Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Glucose Monitoring

Advancements in technology have revolutionized blood glucose monitoring, offering new tools and methods to help individuals with diabetes better manage their condition. These innovations aim to provide more comprehensive data, improve convenience, and enhance overall diabetes care.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems

CGM systems use a small sensor inserted under the skin to measure glucose levels in interstitial fluid continuously. Benefits of CGM include:

• Real-time glucose readings throughout the day and night
• Alerts for high or low glucose levels
• Trend information showing glucose patterns over time
• Reduced need for frequent finger pricks
• Improved understanding of how food, activity, and other factors affect glucose levels

Smartphone Apps and Cloud-Based Platforms

Many modern glucometers can sync with smartphone apps or cloud-based platforms, offering features such as:

• Automatic logging of glucose readings
• Digital logbooks for recording meals, medications, and activities
• Data analysis and visualization tools
• Sharing capabilities to send reports to healthcare providers
• Integration with other health and fitness apps

These technological advancements provide powerful tools for both individuals with diabetes and their healthcare teams to make more informed decisions about diabetes management strategies.

The Importance of Proper Technique in Blood Glucose Monitoring

Ensuring accurate blood glucose readings is crucial for effective diabetes management. Proper technique when performing tests can significantly impact the reliability of your results. Consider the following tips to improve the accuracy of your blood glucose monitoring:

Steps for Accurate Blood Glucose Testing

1. Clean hands: Always wash your hands with soap and warm water before testing. If using alcohol wipes, ensure your finger is completely dry before pricking.
2. Alternate test sites: Rotate among different fingers and use the sides of fingertips to minimize discomfort and maintain skin health.
3. Correct strip handling: Insert the test strip into the meter correctly and avoid touching the reagent area.
4. Adequate blood sample: Ensure you obtain a sufficient drop of blood to fill the test strip properly.
5. Timely application: Apply the blood sample to the test strip within the time frame specified by your meter’s instructions.
6. Proper storage: Keep test strips and meter in a cool, dry place and check expiration dates regularly.
7. Regular calibration: Follow manufacturer guidelines for calibrating your meter to maintain accuracy.

By following these steps and maintaining proper technique, you can ensure more reliable blood glucose readings, leading to better-informed decisions about your diabetes management.

Overcoming Barriers to Regular Blood Glucose Monitoring

While regular blood glucose monitoring is essential for effective diabetes management, various barriers can make consistent testing challenging. Recognizing and addressing these obstacles can help improve adherence to your monitoring routine:

Common Barriers and Solutions

• Pain or discomfort: Use alternate site testing or explore less painful lancing devices.
• Cost of supplies: Discuss more affordable options with your healthcare provider or explore insurance coverage.
• Time constraints: Integrate testing into your daily routine and use reminders or alarms.
• Emotional factors: Seek support from diabetes support groups or a mental health professional to address anxiety or burnout.
• Lack of understanding: Work with a diabetes educator to improve your knowledge and skills.
• Forgetfulness: Use smartphone apps or set alarms to remind you to test.
• Difficulty interpreting results: Regularly discuss your readings with your healthcare team to gain better insights.

By identifying and addressing these barriers, you can develop strategies to maintain a consistent and effective blood glucose monitoring routine, ultimately leading to better diabetes management and improved overall health.

The Role of Blood Glucose Monitoring in Long-Term Diabetes Management

Regular blood glucose monitoring plays a crucial role in the long-term management of diabetes, offering benefits that extend far beyond day-to-day glucose control. Understanding the broader implications of consistent monitoring can help motivate individuals to maintain this vital habit:

Long-Term Benefits of Regular Monitoring

• Improved HbA1c levels: Consistent monitoring helps maintain better overall glucose control, reflected in lower HbA1c results.
• Reduced risk of complications: Better glucose management lowers the risk of long-term diabetes-related complications.
• Personalized treatment adjustments: Regular data allows for more tailored medication and lifestyle interventions.
• Enhanced self-management skills: Monitoring fosters a deeper understanding of how various factors affect your glucose levels.
• Early detection of changes: Consistent testing can reveal gradual changes in glucose patterns, allowing for proactive adjustments.
• Improved quality of life: Better glucose control often leads to improved energy levels and overall well-being.

By viewing blood glucose monitoring as an investment in your long-term health, you can maintain motivation and commitment to this essential aspect of diabetes care.

Blood Glucose Monitoring: How It Works

Blood glucose monitoring

Testing your blood sugar level is one of the best ways to understand your diabetes and how different foods, medications, and activities affect your diabetes. Keeping track of your blood glucose can help you and your doctor make a plan to manage this condition.

People use portable blood glucose meters, called glucometers, to check their blood sugar levels. These work by analyzing a small amount of blood, usually from a fingertip.

A lancet lightly pricks your skin to obtain the blood. Meters tell you your current blood sugar. But, since blood sugar levels change, you need to test levels often and record them.

You can get blood glucose monitoring kits and supplies from:

• your doctor’s office
• a diabetes educator’s office
• a pharmacy
• online stores

You can discuss the price with your doctor or pharmacist. Glucose meters come with testing strips, small needles, or lancets, to prick your finger, and a device to hold the needle. The kit may include a logbook or you might be able to download the readings onto your computer.

Meters vary in cost and size. Some have added features to suit different needs and preferences. These may include:

• audio capabilities for people with vision impairment
• backlit screens to help you see them in low light
• additional memory or data storage
• preloaded test strips for people who have difficulty using their hands
• USB ports to load information directly to a computer

Regular glucose monitoring is one way people with diabetes can learn more about their condition. When it’s time to make important decisions about medication dosage, exercise, and diet, knowing your blood glucose levels will help you, your doctor, and the rest of your healthcare team.

By checking your blood glucose levels routinely, you’ll also know when your blood sugar is too high or too low, both of which can cause symptoms and serious health problems.

Your doctor will calculate the target range for your blood glucose based on your age, your type of diabetes, your overall health, and other factors. It’s important to keep your glucose levels within your target range as best as you can.

Complications of high and low blood sugar levels

If you don’t get treatment, high blood sugar levels can lead to long-term complications, including:

• heart disease
• nerve damage
• vision problems
• poor blood flow
• kidney disease

Low blood sugar levels can also cause symptoms that include:

• confusion
• weakness
• dizziness
• jitters
• sweating

Low blood sugar can also lead to serious complications, such as seizures and coma.

Risks from the blood glucose test are minimal and much lower than the risks of not monitoring your blood sugar levels.

If you share insulin needles and testing supplies with someone, you’re at an increased risk of spreading illnesses, such as:

• HIV
• hepatitis B
• hepatitis C

You should never share needles or finger-stick devices for any reason.

Before checking your blood glucose levels, make sure that you have:

• a finger-stick device to prick your finger, such as a lancet
• an alcohol swab to sterilize the puncture site
• a blood glucose monitor
• a bandage if bleeding continues beyond a few drops

Also, depending on the type of test you’re taking, you may need to adjust your meal schedule or time it around your meal, depending on your doctor’s instructions.

Before you begin, wash your hands thoroughly to prevent infection at the finger-prick site. If you use alcohol wipes instead of washing, be sure to let the site dry before testing.

Next, put a testing strip into the meter. Prick your finger with the lancet to get a small drop of blood. Use the sides of the fingertips instead of the tip to decrease finger discomfort.

The blood goes on the test strip you inserted into the meter. Your monitor will analyze the blood and give you the blood glucose reading on its digital display usually within a minute.

Finger pricks rarely require a bandage, but you may want to use one if bleeding continues beyond a few drops. It’s important to follow all the instructions that came with your glucometer to ensure accurate results.

If you have type 1 diabetes, you may need to test your blood glucose four or more times per day. This includes before and after meals and exercise, and more often when you are sick.

If you have type 2 diabetes, your doctor will let you know when and how often to test your blood glucose.

The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology recommends you keep fasting and premeal glucose values at 80-130 and post-prandial

However, these are general guidelines and are not for everyone. Ask your doctor about your target levels.

Regular blood glucose monitoring is an essential tool to help you take control of your diabetes. By identifying and recording changes in your blood sugar levels, you’ll have more information about how food, exercise, stress, and other factors affect your diabetes.

Diabetic coma – Symptoms & causes

Overview

A diabetic coma is a life-threatening disorder that causes unconsciousness. If you have diabetes, dangerously high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to a diabetic coma.

If you go into a diabetic coma, you’re alive — but you can’t wake up or respond purposefully to sights, sounds or other types of stimulation. If it’s not treated, a diabetic coma can result in death.

The idea of a diabetic coma can be scary, but you can take steps to help prevent it. One of the most important is to follow your diabetes treatment plan.

Products & Services

Symptoms

Symptoms of high blood sugar or low blood sugar usually develop before a diabetic coma.

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)

If your blood sugar level is too high, you may have:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Tiredness or weakness
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Stomach pain
• Fruity breath odor
• A very dry mouth

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

If your blood sugar is too low, you may have:

• Shakiness
• Anxiety
• Tiredness or drowsiness
• Weakness
• Sweating
• Hunger
• A feeling of tingling on your skin
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Difficulty speaking
• Blurry vision
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness

Some people, especially those who’ve had diabetes for a long time, develop a condition known as hypoglycemia unawareness. That means they don’t have warning symptoms that signal a drop in blood sugar.

If you have any symptoms of high or low blood sugar, test your blood sugar right away. Based on the test results, follow your diabetes treatment. If you don’t start to feel better quickly, or you start to feel worse, get medical care right away.

When to see a doctor

A diabetic coma is a medical emergency. If you have symptoms of high or low blood sugar and you think you might pass out, call 911 or your local emergency number.

If you’re with someone with diabetes who has passed out, call for emergency help. Tell the emergency personnel that the unconscious person has diabetes.

Causes

Blood sugar that’s either too high or too low for too long may cause the following serious health problems, all of which can lead to a diabetic coma.

• Diabetic ketoacidosis. If your muscle cells become starved for energy, your body may start breaking down fat for energy. This process forms toxic acids known as ketones. If you have ketones (measured in blood or urine) and high blood sugar, the condition is called diabetic ketoacidosis. If it’s not treated, it can lead to a diabetic coma.

  Diabetic ketoacidosis is most common in people who have type 1 diabetes. But it can also occur in people who have type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes.

• Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome. If your blood sugar level goes above 600 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), or 33.3 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), the condition is called diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome.

  When blood sugar is very high, the extra sugar passes from the blood into the urine. That triggers a process that draws a large amount of fluid from the body. If it isn’t treated, this can lead to life-threatening dehydration and a diabetic coma.

• Hypoglycemia. Your brain needs sugar (glucose) to function. In severe cases, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) may cause you to pass out. Low blood sugar can be caused by too much insulin or not enough food. Exercising too vigorously or drinking too much alcohol can have the same effect.

Risk factors

Anyone who has diabetes is at risk of a diabetic coma, but the following factors can increase the risk:

• Insulin delivery problems. If you’re using an insulin pump, you have to check your blood sugar frequently. Insulin delivery can stop if the pump fails or if the tubing (catheter) becomes twisted or falls out of place. A lack of insulin can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis.
• An illness, trauma or surgery. When you’re sick or injured, blood sugar levels can change, sometimes significantly, increasing your risk of diabetic ketoacidosis and diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome.
• Poorly managed diabetes. If you don’t monitor your blood sugar properly or take your medications as directed by your health care provider, you have a higher risk of developing long-term health problems and a higher risk of diabetic coma.
• Deliberately skipping meals or insulin. Sometimes, people with diabetes who also have an eating disorder choose not to use their insulin as they should, in the hope of losing weight. This is a dangerous, life-threatening thing to do, and it raises the risk of a diabetic coma.
• Drinking alcohol. Alcohol can have unpredictable effects on your blood sugar. Alcohol’s effects may make it harder for you to know when you’re having low blood sugar symptoms. This can increase your risk of a diabetic coma caused by hypoglycemia.
• Illegal drug use. Illegal drugs, such as cocaine, can increase your risk of severe high blood sugar and conditions linked to diabetic coma.

Complications

If it is not treated, a diabetic coma can lead to permanent brain damage and death.

Prevention

Good day-to-day control of your diabetes can help you prevent a diabetic coma. Keep these tips in mind:

• Follow your meal plan. Consistent snacks and meals can help you control your blood sugar level.
• Keep an eye on your blood sugar level. Frequent blood sugar tests can tell you whether you’re keeping your blood sugar level in your target range. It also can alert you to dangerous highs or lows. Check more frequently if you’ve exercised. Exercise can cause blood sugar levels to drop, even hours later, especially if you don’t exercise regularly.
• Take your medication as directed. If you have frequent episodes of high or low blood sugar, tell your health care provider. You may need to have the dose or the timing of your medication adjusted.
• Have a sick-day plan. Illness can cause an unexpected change in blood sugar. If you are sick and unable to eat, your blood sugar may drop. While you are healthy, talk with your doctor about how to best manage your blood sugar levels if you get sick. Consider storing at least a week’s worth of diabetes supplies and an extra glucagon kit in case of emergencies.
• Check for ketones when your blood sugar is high. Check your urine for ketones when your blood sugar level is over 250 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) (14 millimoles per liter (mmol/L)) on more than two consecutive tests, especially if you are sick. If you have a large amount of ketones, call your health care provider for advice. Call your health care provider immediately if you have any level of ketones and are vomiting. High levels of ketones can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, which can lead to coma.
• Have glucagon and fast-acting sources of sugar available. If you take insulin for your diabetes, have an up-to-date glucagon kit and fast-acting sources of sugar, such as glucose tablets or orange juice, readily available to treat low blood sugar levels.

• Consider a continuous glucose monitor, especially if you have trouble maintaining stable blood sugar levels or you don’t feel symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia unawareness).

  Continuous glucose monitors are devices that use a small sensor inserted underneath the skin to track trends in blood sugar levels and send the information to a wireless device, such as a smart phone.

  These monitors can alert you when your blood sugar is dangerously low or if it is dropping too fast. But you still need to test your blood sugar levels using a blood glucose meter even if you’re using one of these monitors. Continuous glucose monitors are more expensive than other glucose monitoring methods, but they may help you control your glucose better.

• Drink alcohol with caution. Because alcohol can have an unpredictable effect on your blood sugar, have a snack or a meal when you drink alcohol, if you choose to drink at all.
• Educate your loved ones, friends and co-workers. Teach loved ones and other close contacts how to recognize the early symptoms of blood sugar extremes and how to give emergency injections. If you pass out, someone should be able to call for emergency help.
• Wear a medical identification bracelet or necklace. If you’re unconscious, the bracelet or necklace can provide valuable information to your friends, co-workers and emergency personnel.

Continuous glucose monitor and insulin pump

A continuous glucose monitor, on the left, is a device that measures blood sugar every few minutes using a sensor inserted under the skin. An insulin pump, attached to the pocket, is a device that’s worn outside of the body with a tube that connects the reservoir of insulin to a catheter inserted under the skin of the abdomen. Insulin pumps are programmed to deliver specific amounts of insulin continuously and with food.

Diabetes mellitus – causes, symptoms, blood sugar level

British scientists with the participation of WHO (World Health Organization) found that over the past 20 years the number of patients with diabetes mellitus has doubled. Currently, over 3 million Russians have been diagnosed with diabetes, according to doctors, about 6-9 million more do not know about their disease. Russia is in 5th place in the world in terms of incidence, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (non-insulin-dependent diabetes) has become especially common in children, adolescents and young adults.

Diabetes mellitus is not in vain called the “disease of civilization” – malnutrition, low physical activity, constant stress, i.e. everything that makes up the lifestyle of a modern person are the main causes of the development of the disease.

Doctors say that it is not the disease itself that is scary, but its consequences: the target organs of diabetes mellitus are vision, kidneys, nervous system, heart, blood vessels … With early diagnosis and adequate timely treatment, it is quite possible to avoid serious consequences of the disease and maintain the habitual the quality of life of patients.

Every year November 14th is World Diabetes Day . On this day, medical workers pay great attention to informing as many people as possible about diabetes mellitus , its symptoms and consequences, and tell how to prevent the development of this disease.

It is known that today, despite the high level of development of medicine and pharmaceuticals, an effective remedy has not yet been invented that would completely cure diabetes. People diagnosed with the disease are forced to take medicines for the rest of their lives, follow the recommendations for a healthy diet, and follow other doctor’s orders. Therefore, the best way to prevent the development of the disease is its prevention. It is quite simple to do this – you just need to pay attention to the possible symptoms of diabetes in a timely manner.

Symptoms of diabetes mellitus

• Polydipsia (great thirst, dry mouth).
• Polyuria (frequent urination, including at night, an increase in the amount of urine excreted).
• Severe weakness, fatigue, decreased performance.
• Polyphagia (increased appetite).
• Weight loss.

Normal sugar – what is it?

Diabetes mellitus is characterized by hyperglycemia – an increase in blood sugar levels . What blood sugar level should be considered normal? In healthy people blood glucose levels may fluctuate: on an empty stomach – 3.3-5.5 mmol / l, after eating it can rise to 7.8 mmol / l. If such an indicator is observed in blood taken on an empty stomach, this may indicate in favor of diabetes mellitus . The content of glucose in whole blood and plasma, which is obtained after processing the blood in the laboratory, is different, also different blood sugar levels taken from a finger and from a vein – for example, the maximum allowable blood glucose level when taking blood from a vein is 6.1.

If the blood sugar level fluctuates above 5.6 and can reach up to 7.8 mmol, an additional glucose tolerance test is performed: in the morning on an empty stomach, blood is taken from the patient, then he drinks an aqueous glucose solution (75 g per 300 ml of water). Then repeated blood sampling is carried out after 2 hours.

If you have identified symptoms similar to symptoms of diabetes mellitus in yourself or your loved one, immediately contact the GUTA CLINIC endocrinologist! Early diagnosis in combination with adequate therapy will help to stabilize blood sugar levels through individual selection of hypoglycemic drugs, restore impaired blood supply to organs and tissues, and enhance glucose uptake by tissues. Yes, diabetes is incurable, but it is in your power to tame the “sweet” disease and not let it take over!

How to lower blood sugar levels – May 21, 2022

All news

Will it be like in Dubai? Popular shops with ready-made food and branded coffee will open in Perm

Will there be no Italian wines? In Russia, officials are preparing a plan to replace imported alcohol with domestic

Two drones were shot down in New Moscow

From cookies to show. On what desires of the ex-governor of the Kama region, and now the Minister of Economics of the Russian Federation, did the fund “Assistance – XXI Century” squander

The deputies came up with the idea of ​​feeding the Russians with delays. Why are they being punished for this now?0007

“About the mayor, it’s generally tough”: Dmitry Makhonin commented on Marina Fedunkiv’s jokes about Perm and the region

Russians were threatened with arrest for entering the EU in their cars: CBO news for July 3 at the People’s Prize ceremony

Katerina Shpitsa said that in Moscow she misses sausages in dough from PSU and the soft “r” in the word “Perm”

Nikolai Naumov: “We started filming 100% of the last season of The Real Boys”

137 days in the ocean: a man drifting on a boat was found in the Atlantic — rescue footage

“The truncheons were used”: in Perm, after a private security company arrived at a hotel, a camel tamer ended up in the hospital

With a group of Pizza, Andrey Malakhov and Marina Fedunkiv. Ceremony of awarding the People’s Prize has begun in Perm 59.RU

Director of the film “The Crew” Alexander Mitta was in intensive care

Carpet and photo zones. We meet the guests of the People’s Award 59 live.RU

All the winners have been named, “Pizza” sang its main hits. How was the People’s Award 59.RU

Do you play naughty? Only a person with iron nerves will find a rabbit in this picture in 10 seconds

In the Kama region, after a quarrel with her husband, a mother stabbed her six-year-old daughter to death

The Spartakiad of workers in Perm brought together more than 1200 participants

In Motovilikha, trams stopped because of a tree that fell on the rails

9 0002 Due to the accident, oil got into the Kolva River. Permians, calmness: this is not our Kolva, but its namesake from the Komi Republic

In Russia, the minimum wage will be increased – how will salaries and benefits grow

A water pipeline is being renovated on Karl Marx Square

Smart lamps have been installed in several districts – how they will work

In Motovilikha, they began to repair the Friendship Road

Shoigu commented for the first time armed rebellion PMC ” Wagner”

Doctors told why broccoli and eggs save you from overeating

The prosecutor of the Kama region demanded a life sentence for a man accused of contract killing of a mother and child from Bashkortostan

Cold water will be turned off for a while in three districts of Perm. We publish a list of addresses

The Investigative Committee announced an inspection after a gesture for help from a child on the air of the First Channel program

In Perm, an emergency five-story building on Kuibyshev Street, which was urgently resettled in the spring, is being demolished. Photo

There are many kilometers of traffic jams on the Krymsky Bridge due to tourists. When will it end?

Permian since April cannot restore the grandfather’s grave, broken during work at the Yegoshikha cemetery

Beware of varicose veins: how to quickly diagnose and cure the disease

FSB reported an assassination attempt on the head of Crimea

Atas and Kon with Kombat in the pouring rain: many photos from the Lyube concert in Perm

Oman beckons us! Five facts about a little-known destination for Russians, which is doomed to popularity Why and why?

Will there be a new wave of mobilization due to the departure of PMC Wagner? Answered by Kartapolov

All news

Nutrition with high blood sugar should be given special attention

org/Person”> Photo: Shutterstock.com

Share

Elevated blood sugar levels are a wake-up call, says Dr. Peter. If the numbers deviated slightly from the norm, it is worthwhile to analyze your lifestyle without delay and revise it if necessary.

– Normally, the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood from a vein on an empty stomach is up to 6.1 mmol / l, 2 hours after eating – up to 7.8 mmol / l, – endocrinologist Gulnara Belousova explained to Doctor Peter. – In diabetes mellitus, the glucose level is equal to or higher than 7.0 mmol / l, 2 hours after eating – 11.1 mmol / l and above. An increase in the blood glucose level of more than 8.0 mmol / l has a toxic effect on the pancreas, damaging the cells that produce insulin.

Gulnara Belousova — endocrinologist at the Zdravitsa Family Medicine Center in Novosibirsk.

An increase in blood sugar after meals is especially dangerous for the vessels of the heart and brain. So, with very high blood glucose levels (more than 13. 0 mmol / l), ketones (markers of carbohydrate metabolism disorders) may appear in the urine, and this condition may require hospitalization, the doctor notes.

If diabetes is detected, hypoglycemic drugs are immediately prescribed.

“Yes, maybe,” the endocrinologist assures. – In this disease, there is a violation of the production of insulin and / or a violation of the sensitivity of body cells to it.

Insulin is needed in order to pass glucose into the cell. If there is not enough of it or the cells of the body do not feel it, glucose remains in the blood. The reason is the violation of metabolic processes inside the body, and malnutrition only exacerbates the situation, accelerates the development of diabetes.

“At first, with a slight increase in blood glucose levels against the background of a diet, in some cases it is possible to achieve normalization of carbohydrate metabolism,” explains Gulnara Belousova. But, as a rule, this effect does not last for a long period. During the absence of therapy, complications will develop. The sooner treatment is started, the better the outcome. Modern hypoglycemic drugs not only effectively and safely reduce blood glucose, but also prevent the development of cardiovascular complications, prolong the life of patients.

The goal of treating diabetes is not to see the right number in the analysis, but to ensure a good quality of life without complications and increase its duration, the doctor says.

— Nutrition is part of the treatment of diabetes, — explains the endocrinologist. “We are not talking about hard limits. Severe calorie restriction and fasting are contraindicated. To begin with, you need to limit fats as much as possible (primarily of animal origin) and sweet foods. Moderately worth eating foods consisting mainly of complex carbohydrates and proteins. You should choose carbohydrates in the composition of vegetables, whole grains, dairy products.

In diabetes, the benefits of taking vitamins (in the absence of signs of beriberi), microelements, and various dietary supplements have not been proven.

“If blood sugar is slightly elevated, you can lower it without pills by observing the diet,” explained nutritionist Alexandra Lysenkova .

1. Eliminate fast carbohydrates in the form of sweets, pastries, fast food, sugary drinks, soda, sauces (ketchup).

2. Avoid side dishes such as mashed potatoes, whole grain pasta and white rice.

3. Focus on cooked, raw and pickled vegetables (1/2 plate), quality protein – fish, seafood, offal, poultry, meat – rabbit, beef, lamb, legumes (1/4 plate) and slow carbohydrates – buckwheat, wild rice, millet, quinoa, whole grains (1/4 plate).

It is important not to eat carbohydrates separately (they are digested quickly and cause blood sugar spikes). It is better to combine carbohydrates with protein foods. Protein slows down the digestion process, keeping you feeling full longer, and reduces the rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream.

4. Do not forget about healthy fats in every meal – eggs, fatty fish, unrefined raw-pressed vegetable oils, raw nuts and seeds, avocados, olives.

Nuts have a balanced content of vegetable proteins, fiber and healthy fats that help to maintain normal sugar levels.

Good blood sugar combinations include eggs and whole grain toast, oatmeal and yogurt, chicken with brown rice, crackers and cheese.

5. Any kind of physical exercise lowers blood sugar levels.

— In case of diabetes, aerobic exercise lasting 30–40 minutes daily is recommended, — said endocrinologist Gulnara Belousova. – Regularity is important. Physical activity improves quality of life and helps to reduce and maintain body weight.

– Physical activity should be dosed individually for each person. The duration of light to moderate intensity activities, such as walking, swimming, cycling, should be 45-60 minutes a day at least three times a week – I’m sure and therapist of the NAKFF Medical Clinic Tatyana Nalegach . – As for the swings of the arms – such exercises are aimed at stimulating the lymphatic channel, since the lymphatic vessels do not have their own heart and valves.