What factors can unexpectedly raise your blood sugar. How does the A1C test measure long-term glucose control. Why is maintaining a healthy A1C level crucial for diabetes management. What are the recommended A1C targets for different groups of people. How often should you get your A1C tested. What can affect the accuracy of A1C results.

Understanding the A1C Test: Your Key to Long-Term Blood Sugar Control

The A1C test, also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test, is a crucial tool in diagnosing and managing diabetes. This simple blood test provides valuable insights into your average blood sugar levels over the past three months. By measuring the percentage of red blood cells with sugar-coated hemoglobin, healthcare professionals can assess your overall glucose control and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

How Does the A1C Test Work?

When sugar enters your bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin, a protein in your red blood cells. The A1C test measures the percentage of these sugar-coated hemoglobin molecules. A higher percentage indicates consistently elevated blood sugar levels over time.

Interpreting A1C Results

• Normal: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or above

Within the prediabetes range, a higher A1C percentage correlates with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. For those already diagnosed with diabetes, maintaining an A1C level of 7% or less is generally recommended, though individual goals may vary based on personal health factors.

Who Should Get an A1C Test and How Often?

Regular A1C testing is essential for both diagnosing and managing diabetes. The frequency of testing depends on your current health status and risk factors.

For Diabetes Screening:

• Adults over 45 should get a baseline A1C test
• Adults under 45 who are overweight and have one or more risk factors for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes
• Repeat every 3 years if results are normal but risk factors are present
• Test more frequently (every 1-2 years) if results indicate prediabetes

For Diabetes Management:

• At least twice a year for those with well-controlled diabetes
• More frequently if medication changes or other health conditions are present

Is A1C testing alone sufficient for diabetes management? While A1C provides valuable long-term data, it should not replace regular blood sugar testing at home. Daily glucose monitoring captures the fluctuations that occur throughout the day and night, which are not reflected in the A1C result.

Factors That Can Affect Your A1C Results

Several factors can influence A1C test results, potentially leading to falsely high or low readings. It’s crucial to be aware of these factors and discuss them with your healthcare provider to ensure accurate interpretation of your results.

Medical Conditions That May Impact A1C:

• Kidney failure
• Liver disease
• Severe anemia
• Certain blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia, thalassemia)

Other Factors Affecting A1C Accuracy:

• Certain medications (e.g., opioids, some HIV medications)
• Recent blood loss or blood transfusions
• Pregnancy (early or late stages)
• Genetic variations in hemoglobin types

How can you ensure the most accurate A1C results? Inform your healthcare provider about any relevant medical conditions, medications, or recent health events that may affect your A1C. In some cases, additional testing may be necessary to confirm or clarify results.

Setting Your Personal A1C Goal: A Collaborative Approach

While the general target for A1C in diabetes management is 7% or less, it’s essential to recognize that this goal may not be appropriate for everyone. Your personal A1C target should be determined in collaboration with your healthcare team, taking into account various factors unique to your situation.

Factors Influencing A1C Goals:

• Age
• Duration of diabetes
• Other medical conditions
• Risk of hypoglycemia
• Life expectancy
• Personal preferences and lifestyle

Why might younger individuals with diabetes have lower A1C targets? Younger people generally have more years living with diabetes ahead of them, so maintaining tighter glucose control can help reduce the risk of long-term complications. However, this must be balanced against the risk of hypoglycemia and other quality of life considerations.

Conversely, older adults or those with multiple health conditions may have higher A1C targets. This approach acknowledges the increased risks associated with strict glucose control in these populations, such as severe hypoglycemic episodes.

10 Surprising Factors That Can Spike Your Blood Sugar

While most people with diabetes are aware of how food and exercise affect their blood sugar levels, there are several less obvious factors that can cause unexpected spikes. Being aware of these potential triggers can help you maintain better glucose control and avoid frustrating fluctuations.

1. Stress: Both physical and emotional stress can trigger the release of hormones that raise blood sugar levels. Implementing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises can help mitigate this effect.
2. Lack of Sleep: Poor sleep quality or insufficient sleep duration can disrupt hormone balance and insulin sensitivity. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support better glucose control.
3. Dehydration: When you’re dehydrated, your blood becomes more concentrated, leading to higher glucose readings. Stay well-hydrated by drinking water regularly throughout the day.
4. Caffeine: Some people experience blood sugar spikes after consuming caffeinated beverages. Monitor your individual response and consider limiting caffeine intake if you notice this effect.
5. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids or certain antipsychotics, can raise blood sugar levels. Always discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider when starting new medications.
6. Illness or Infection: The body’s stress response to illness can cause blood sugar to rise. Be vigilant about monitoring glucose levels when you’re sick and have a sick-day management plan in place.
7. Dawn Phenomenon: Some people experience higher morning blood sugar levels due to hormonal changes that occur overnight. Adjusting medication timing or evening routines may help address this issue.
8. Artificial Sweeteners: While not conclusive, some studies suggest that certain artificial sweeteners may affect insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism in some individuals.
9. Weather Changes: Extreme temperatures, especially heat, can affect blood sugar levels and insulin absorption. Be aware of how your body responds to different weather conditions and adjust your management accordingly.
10. Altitude Changes: High altitudes can affect glucose readings and insulin requirements. If you’re traveling to high-altitude locations, consult with your healthcare team about potential adjustments to your diabetes management plan.

How can you identify which of these factors may be affecting your blood sugar? Keep a detailed log of your glucose readings, along with notes about your activities, diet, stress levels, and other relevant factors. This information can help you and your healthcare team identify patterns and make appropriate adjustments to your management plan.

Leveraging A1C Results for Improved Diabetes Management

While A1C testing provides valuable insights into long-term glucose control, it’s essential to use this information in conjunction with other diabetes management tools and strategies. By integrating A1C results with daily blood glucose monitoring, you can develop a more comprehensive understanding of your diabetes management and make informed decisions about your care.

Complementing A1C with Daily Glucose Monitoring

Why is daily blood glucose testing still important even if your A1C is at goal? A1C provides an average of your blood sugar levels over time but doesn’t capture the day-to-day fluctuations or patterns that can impact your overall health and quality of life. Regular blood glucose monitoring allows you to:

• Identify and address immediate highs and lows
• Understand how different foods, activities, and medications affect your glucose levels
• Make real-time adjustments to your diabetes management plan
• Detect patterns that may not be evident from A1C results alone

How can you effectively combine A1C and daily glucose data? Consider using a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system or keeping a detailed log of your blood sugar readings, meals, medications, and activities. Share this information with your healthcare team to facilitate more informed discussions about your diabetes management.

Empowering Yourself with A1C Knowledge: Taking Action for Better Health

Understanding your A1C results and how various factors can influence your blood sugar levels is a crucial step in taking control of your diabetes management. By leveraging this knowledge, you can make informed decisions about your lifestyle, treatment plan, and overall health.

Steps to Improve Your A1C

• Work with your healthcare team to set realistic A1C goals
• Develop a balanced meal plan that supports stable blood sugar levels
• Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine
• Take medications as prescribed and discuss any concerns with your provider
• Monitor your blood sugar regularly and keep detailed records
• Learn to recognize and manage stress effectively
• Stay informed about diabetes management techniques and new research

What role does patient education play in achieving optimal A1C levels? Participating in diabetes self-management education and support services can provide you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to effectively manage your condition. These programs offer valuable resources on topics such as nutrition, exercise, medication management, and problem-solving strategies specific to diabetes care.

Beyond A1C: A Holistic Approach to Diabetes Care

While A1C is a critical metric in diabetes management, it’s important to remember that it’s just one piece of the puzzle. A truly comprehensive approach to diabetes care involves considering multiple aspects of your health and well-being.

Key Components of Holistic Diabetes Management:

• Cardiovascular health monitoring
• Regular eye and foot exams
• Kidney function assessments
• Mental health support
• Nutritional counseling
• Physical activity guidance
• Ongoing diabetes education

How can you ensure you’re addressing all aspects of your diabetes care? Work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses not only your A1C and blood sugar management but also these other crucial aspects of your health. Regular check-ups and open communication with your providers are key to maintaining optimal overall health with diabetes.

By taking a proactive, informed approach to your diabetes management and leveraging tools like A1C testing alongside daily glucose monitoring, you can work towards achieving better health outcomes and an improved quality of life. Remember that diabetes management is a journey, and with the right knowledge, support, and strategies, you can successfully navigate the challenges and live well with diabetes.

All About Your A1C

Español (Spanish) | Print

What has your blood sugar been up to lately? Get an A1C test to find out your average levels—important to know if you’re at risk for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, or if you’re managing diabetes.

The A1C test—also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test—is a simple blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months. It’s one of the commonly used tests to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, and is also the main test to help you and your health care team manage your diabetes. Higher A1C levels are linked to diabetes complications, so reaching and maintaining your individual A1C goal is really important if you have diabetes.

What Does the A1C Test Measure?

When sugar enters your bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin, a protein in your red blood cells. Everybody has some sugar attached to their hemoglobin, but people with higher blood sugar levels have more. The A1C test measures the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin.

Who Should Get an A1C Test, and When?

Testing for diabetes or prediabetes:
Get a baseline A1C test if you’re an adult over age 45—or if you’re under 45, are overweight, and have one or more risk factors for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes:

• If your result is normal but you’re over 45, have risk factors, or have ever had gestational diabetes, repeat the A1C test every 3 years.
• If your result shows you have prediabetes, talk to your doctor about taking steps now to improve your health and lower your risk for type 2 diabetes. Repeat the A1C test as often as your doctor recommends, usually every 1 to 2 years.
• If you don’t have symptoms but your result shows you have prediabetes or diabetes, get a second test on a different day to confirm the result.
• If your test shows you have diabetes, ask your doctor to refer you to diabetes self-management education and support services so you can have the best start in managing your diabetes.

Managing diabetes:
If you have diabetes, get an A1C test at least twice a year, more often if your medicine changes or if you have other health conditions. Talk to your doctor about how often is right for you.

How to Prepare for Your A1C Test

The test is done in a doctor’s office or a lab using a sample of blood from a finger stick or from your arm. You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for your A1C test. However, ask your doctor if other tests will be done at the same time and if you need to prepare for them.

Your A1C Result

Diagnosing Prediabetes or Diabetes

A normal A1C level is below 5.7%, a level of 5. 7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and a level of 6.5% or more indicates diabetes. Within the 5.7% to 6.4% prediabetes range, the higher your A1C, the greater your risk is for developing type 2 diabetes.

Managing Diabetes
Your A1C result can also be reported as estimated average glucose (eAG), the same numbers (mg/dL) you’re used to seeing on your blood sugar meter:

What Can Affect Your A1C Result?

Get your A1C tested in addition to—not instead of—regular blood sugar self-testing if you have diabetes.

Several factors can falsely increase or decrease your A1C result, including:

• Kidney failure, liver disease, or severe anemia.
• A less common type of hemoglobin that people of African, Mediterranean, or Southeast Asian descent and people with certain blood disorders (such as sickle cell anemia or thalassemia) may have.
• Certain medicines, including opioids and some HIV medications.
• Blood loss or blood transfusions.
• Early or late pregnancy.

Let your doctor know if any of these factors apply to you, and ask if you need additional tests to find out.

Your A1C Goal

The goal for most people with diabetes is 7% or less. However, your personal goal will depend on many things such as your age and any other medical conditions. Work with your doctor to set your own individual A1C goal.

Younger people have more years with diabetes ahead, so their goal may be lower to reduce the risk of complications, unless they often have hypoglycemia (low blood sugar, or a “low”). People who are older, have severe lows, or have other serious health problems may have a higher goal.

A1C: Just Part of the Toolkit

A1C is an important tool for managing diabetes, but it doesn’t replace regular blood sugar testing at home. Blood sugar goes up and down throughout the day and night, which isn’t captured by your A1C. Two people can have the same A1C, one with steady blood sugar levels and the other with high and low swings.

If you’re reaching your A1C goal but having symptoms of highs or lows, check your blood sugar more often and at different times of day. Keep track and share the results with your doctor so you can make changes to your treatment plan if needed.

Top of Page

• CDC’s Division of Diabetes Translation
• Diabetes Basics
• Blood Sugar Testing
• Diabetes Features & Spotlights
• CDC Diabetes on Facebook
• @CDCDiabetes on Twitter

Managing Diabetes in the Heat | Diabetes

How to keep your cool during the hottest time of year.

Take steps to stay cool when the weather heats up.

Did you know that people who have diabetes—both type 1 and type 2—feel the heat more than people who don’t have diabetes? Some reasons why:

• Certain diabetes complications, such as damage to blood vessels and nerves, can affect your sweat glands so your body can’t cool as effectively. That can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which is a medical emergency.
• People with diabetes get dehydrated (lose too much water from their bodies) more quickly. Not drinking enough liquids can raise blood sugar, and high blood sugar can make you urinate more, causing dehydration. Some commonly used medicines like diuretics (“water pills” to treat high blood pressure) can dehydrate you, too.
• High temperatures can change how your body uses insulin. You may need to test your blood sugar more often and adjust your insulin dose and what you eat and drink.

It’s the Heat

and the Humidity

Even when it doesn’t seem very hot outside, the combination of heat and humidity (moisture in the air) can be dangerous. When sweat evaporates (dries) on your skin, it removes heat and cools you. It’s harder to stay cool in high humidity because sweat can’t evaporate as well.

Whether you’re working out or just hanging out, it’s a good idea to check the heat index—a measurement that combines temperature and humidity. Take steps to stay cool (see sidebar) when it reaches 80°F in the shade with 40% humidity or above. Important to know: The heat index can be up to 15°F higher in full sunlight, so stick to the shade when the weather warms up.

Physical activity is key to managing diabetes, but don’t get active outdoors during the hottest part of the day or when the heat index is high. Get out early in the morning or in the evening when temperatures are lower, or go to an air-conditioned mall or gym to get active.

Your Blood Sugar Knows Best

Kids out of school, vacations, get-togethers, family reunions. The summer season can throw off your routine, and possibly your diabetes management plan. Check your blood sugar more often to make sure it’s in your target range no matter what the summer brings. It’s especially important to recognize what low blood sugar feels like and treat it as soon as possible.

Play it safe in the sun with a hat and sunglasses.

Warm-weather wisdom:

• Drink plenty of water—even if you’re not thirsty—so you don’t get dehydrated.
• Avoid alcohol and drinks with caffeine, like coffee and energy or sports drinks. They can lead to water loss and spike your blood sugar levels.
• Check your blood sugar before, during, and after you’re active. You may need to change how much insulin you use. Ask your doctor if you would like help in adjusting your dosage.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat when you’re outside. Sunburn can raise your blood sugar levels.
• Don’t go barefoot, even on the beach or at the pool.
• Use your air conditioner or go to an air-conditioned building or mall to stay cool. In very high heat, a room fan won’t cool you enough.

Too Hot to Handle

Know what else feels the heat? Diabetes medicines, supplies, and equipment:

• Don’t store insulin or oral diabetes medicine in direct sunlight or in a hot car. Check package information about how high temperatures can affect insulin and other medicines.
• If you’re traveling, keep insulin and other medicines in a cooler. Don’t put insulin directly on ice or on a gel pack.
• Heat can damage your blood sugar monitor, insulin pump, and other diabetes equipment. Don’t leave them in a hot car, by a pool, in direct sunlight, or on the beach. The same goes for supplies such as test strips.

But don’t let the summer heat stop you from taking your diabetes medicine and supplies with you when you’re out and about. You’ll need to be able to test your blood sugar and take steps if it’s too high or too low. Just make sure to protect your diabetes gear from the heat.

Stormy Weather

June 1 marks the beginning of hurricane season. Severe thunderstorms with hail, high winds, and tornadoes are more likely in warm weather, too. People with diabetes face extra challenges if a strong storm knocks out the power or they have to seek shelter away from home. Plan how you’ll handle medicine that needs refrigeration, such as insulin. And be prepared by packing an emergency go-bag—a supply kit you can grab quickly if you need to leave your home.

Here’s to staying cool, staying safe, and enjoying the long summer days!

High blood sugar in men: symptoms and causes

Find out what high blood sugar in men means and what symptoms it can cause. The causes and methods of treatment of hyperglycemia are considered.

High blood sugar can lead to serious health complications such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and kidney problems. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important to prevent these problems.

Men with high blood sugar may experience symptoms such as frequent thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, insomnia, skin rashes, muscle and joint pain.

What can cause high blood sugar levels in men? These can be eating disorders, an inactive lifestyle, a genetic predisposition, stress, certain medications, and other reasons.

It is important to note that regular blood sugar monitoring and proper treatment will help prevent serious complications and maintain good health.

Elevated blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, is a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal. Prolonged exposure to this condition can lead to serious health consequences.

An increase in blood sugar levels can be caused by a disorder of the insulin system (the body’s inability to properly process glucose), as well as other diseases and factors such as obesity, stress, lack of sleep, thyroid disorders, etc.

Symptoms of high blood sugar may include persistent thirst, frequent urination, dry mouth, weakness, fatigue, decreased vision, slow wound healing, lethargy, etc.

Excessive fatigue – Elevated blood sugar can make you feel weak and tired even with minimal exercise. The man may feel drowsy and unproductive.

Frequent urination – High blood sugar in men can lead to frequent urination. This is because the kidneys are working hard to remove excess glucose from the blood.

Strong thirst – due to the body’s increased need for fluid, elevated sugar levels can lead to a glut of glucose in the blood and cause thirst.

Increased appetite – People with high blood sugar levels may experience a constant need to eat, including sweets.

Delayed healing of wounds and infections – Elevated blood sugar levels can impair the functioning of certain cells in the body, as well as impair the functioning of the immune system, which can lead to slow wound healing and increased susceptibility to infections.

Q&A:

What are the symptoms of high blood sugar in men?

Symptoms of high blood sugar in men may include frequent urination, thirst and hunger, fatigue and irritability, slow wound healing, itching and numbness in the extremities. In more advanced cases, vision problems, abdominal pain, and even loss of consciousness may occur.

What are the causes of high blood sugar in men?

Increased blood sugar in men can be caused by genetic predisposition, poor diet, physical inactivity, stress, thyroid disease, liver and pancreas disease, and certain medications.

How to determine the blood sugar level in men?

Blood sugar levels in men can be determined using blood taken from a finger or a vein, which is taken for analysis. There is also a test for determining the level of glycated hemoglobin, which shows the average level of sugar in the blood over the past 2-3 months.

What are the complications of high blood sugar in men?

High blood sugar in men can lead to serious complications such as heart and vascular disease, nerve damage, kidney problems, vision problems, wounds that do not heal well, and infections such as diabetic foot. In the most severe cases, elevated blood sugar can lead to coma and even death.

How to treat high blood sugar in men?

Treatment for high blood sugar in men may include lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stress reduction), medication (insulin tablets or injections), blood sugar control, and visits to a physician to regularly monitor health and prevent complications.

Can men prevent high blood sugar?

Yes, men can prevent high blood sugar levels by following a healthy lifestyle: eating right, being physically active, reducing stress, not smoking, and avoiding alcohol. It is also necessary to regularly check the level of sugar in the blood and monitor the state of health in general.

Who is at risk of developing high blood sugar?

Men over the age of 45 are at risk as the likelihood of developing diabetes increases with age. It is also important to take into account the presence of a genetic predisposition to the disease.

Overweight and obese men are also at risk as body weight is directly related to blood sugar levels.

Unhealthy men , including those who consume foods high in carbohydrates and fats, as well as those who are sedentary and do not control their stress levels, may also be at risk of developing high blood sugar.

Men with other conditions such as hypertension, polycystic ovary syndrome, Parkinson’s disease and adrenal hyperplasia are at risk. Diseases of the liver and pancreas can also affect blood sugar levels.

What habits can raise sugar levels in men?

Unhealthy diet: Consuming foods rich in sugar and carbohydrates can increase blood sugar levels in men. Too much sugary drinks, confectionery, white bread and other flour products can lead to high blood glucose levels.

Too much alcohol: Too much alcohol can lead to problems with blood sugar regulation and even interfere with the anti-insulin function of the liver.

Smoking: Smoking can cause high blood sugar levels because nicotine can damage pancreatic cells, resulting in decreased insulin production and increased blood glucose levels.

Physical inactivity: Some men may have high blood sugar due to physical inactivity. Regular exercise helps to normalize blood sugar levels and control weight.

Stress: Men who face stressful situations may have trouble regulating their blood sugar levels. Since stress can increase the levels of hormones that affect sugar levels, imbalances in insulin can lead to a temporary increase in blood glucose levels.

Diseases that cause high blood sugar in men

Type 2 diabetes is the most common cause of high blood sugar in men. This disease is characterized by a lack of insulin, the hormone responsible for normal blood sugar levels.

Pancreatitis – Inflammation of the pancreas that can lead to reduced insulin production, resulting in high blood sugar levels.

Hormonal disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, can affect blood sugar levels.

Corticosteroids, such as asthma or skin medications, may cause high blood sugar levels.

Obesity, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, can also affect blood sugar levels.

Heart failure may also cause high blood sugar levels.

It is important to note that blood sugar levels can change depending on many factors such as physical activity, diet, stress and other illnesses and conditions.

The role of nutrition in high blood sugar levels in men

Proper nutrition plays an important role in maintaining health, including in controlling blood sugar levels in men. In type 2 diabetes, blood sugar levels rise because the body cannot effectively use insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. However, proper nutrition can help lower blood sugar levels and improve feelings of well-being.

If men have elevated blood sugar levels, it is recommended to reduce the intake of foods containing simple carbohydrates such as sweets, sugary drinks, bread and other starchy foods. Instead, increase the amount of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, animal and plant protein products in the diet.

In addition, watch portion sizes and foods consumed by men with elevated blood sugar levels. Overeating and frequent snacking should be avoided. It is recommended to reduce the consumption of alcohol, which can increase blood sugar levels. Finally, eating regularly will also help control blood sugar levels in men.

• Recommended foods: Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, animal and vegetable proteins.
• Must avoid: Foods containing simple carbohydrates, alcohol, excessive food intake.
• Tip: Eating regularly will help control blood sugar levels in men.

Physical activity as a way to lower blood sugar levels in men

Elevated blood sugar levels in men can cause various diseases, including type 2 diabetes. One way to lower blood sugar levels is to be physically active.

During exercise, blood glucose drops as it is used for energy production. Thus, exercising regularly or simply being active can help control blood sugar levels in men.

It is important to remember to start with small loads and gradually increase them. When playing sports, it is necessary to monitor the level of sugar in the blood, use the dose of insulin required by the endocrinologist, and also use special glucometers.

1. 1. Some of the most effective physical activities for lowering blood sugar in men are:

In addition, regular physical activity improve blood flow, body shape and general well-being of men.

Medications to control blood sugar in men

Men may need medication if they have high blood sugar levels. One of the most common classes of drugs are hypoglycemic agents.

There are several subtypes of these, including drugs that increase insulin production, drugs that decrease gluconeogenesis, and drugs that increase insulin sensitivity in tissues. All of them help control blood sugar levels.

Another important class of drugs are alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. These drugs slow down the process of digestion of carbohydrates in the intestines, which helps to avoid a sharp increase in sugar levels after a meal.

It is important to note that when using medicines, you must follow the doctor’s recommendations and control blood sugar levels in order to avoid possible complications. Metformin 3 Meglitinides

How is high blood sugar diagnosed in men?

To diagnose high blood sugar in men, a special study is carried out – a glycemic profile. It consists in determining the level of glucose in the blood on an empty stomach, as well as after taking a certain amount of glucose.

Other test methods such as glycosylated hemoglobin and glucose tolerance test may also be used. Glycosylated hemoglobin is a measure of blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, as it is associated with hemoglobin in red blood cells. The glucose tolerance test measures how well the body absorbs glucose and regulates blood sugar levels.

If test results indicate high blood sugar, your doctor may order additional tests, such as an insulin resistance test, to determine the cause of your high blood sugar.

It is important to see a doctor if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as frequent urination, excessive thirst and dry mouth, extreme tiredness and drowsiness.

Sequelae of uncontrolled high blood sugar in men

Uncontrolled high blood sugar in men can lead to serious health problems, some of which can be life-threatening.

1. 1. • Diabetic ketoacidosis: Diabetic ketoacidosis can occur if blood sugar levels are elevated and not controlled and treated. This is a serious condition that can lead to diabetic coma.
      • Cardiovascular disease: High blood sugar levels increase the risk of heart and vascular disease. Uncontrolled blood sugar can damage the walls of the arteries, leading to diseases such as arteriosclerosis and stroke.
      • Nerve damage: High blood sugar can cause nerve damage, especially in men with diabetes. This can lead to loss of sensation, pain, or even paralysis.
      • Kidney problems: Elevated blood sugar can damage the kidneys and lead to chronic kidney failure.
      • Loss of vision: High blood sugar can damage the fundus of the eye, which can lead to loss of vision.

Therefore, at the first sign of high blood sugar, you should consult a doctor and begin treatment and control sugar levels.

How to prevent high blood sugar in men?

Watch your diet. Proper nutrition is a key factor in preventing high blood sugar levels. Avoiding sugary, fatty, and fast foods can help reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes. Instead, opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy proteins, and healthy fats.

Start exercising. Regular exercise can help manage blood sugar and reduce the risk of heart disease. Choose the right exercises for you that will allow you to keep fit.

Give up bad habits. Smoking and drinking can lead to many diseases, including diabetes. If you smoke or drink alcohol, then you need to stop or minimize their consumption. Apples

• chicken

• carrots

• blueberries

• fish

9031 7

• tomatoes

• grapefruit

• legumes

9030 4

Watch your weight. Being overweight can lead to type 2 diabetes in men. Therefore, it is important to monitor your weight and take steps, if necessary, to reduce it. If you are not sure how to manage your weight, then consult a nutritionist or doctor.

Check your blood sugar. Regular blood sugar checks will help you keep track of your health and detect any changes in it in a timely manner. In case of detecting elevated blood sugar levels, you should immediately consult a doctor and start treatment to prevent further deterioration of your health.

Regional Dermatovenerological Dispensary, Lipetsk

Any person can suffer to varying degrees from the consequences that excessive consumption of sweets causes, and not even notice what harm it causes to his organs, nervous and cardiovascular systems. That’s why we decided to explain why cutting out sugar is so important and to help you recognize the warning signs of hyperglycemia before serious complications arise, so that you can take appropriate measures in time.

What does high blood sugar mean

The clinical condition associated with an increase in blood sugar, or rather glucose, is called hyperglycemia and accompanies diabetes mellitus. This happens when the body can no longer maintain the proper level of glucose in the blood due to insufficient production of insulin or its complete cessation – then glucose does not enter the cells, but accumulates in the blood.

At the same time, not all symptoms of hyperglycemia manifest themselves with a minimal excess of blood sugar: sometimes this condition is hidden and can only manifest itself when it is very high, when it will be too late to take some measures. In addition, sensitivity to the effects of elevated glucose levels varies from person to person, and some may feel the symptoms of hyperglycemia much faster and more severely than others.

Hyperglycemia may be acute or chronic. Acute hyperglycemia does not last long, and is often the result of eating a high-carbohydrate meal, missing a dose of medication, stress, or illness. Chronic hyperglycemia, on the other hand, develops when elevated blood glucose levels persist for a long time. Often this is the result of undiagnosed diabetes, or failure to treat diabetes.

Signs of high glucose levels

In order to see a doctor in time, we advise you to check whether you are experiencing the following symptoms of hyperglycemia. And if they are not, we advise you to continue to think about your diet and understand: giving up sugar is not a fashionable trend in recent years, but an important step towards maintaining your health.

Excessive urination

Going to the toilet often for little need – these may be symptoms of high glucose. This condition is called polyuria and means increased urination – that is, here you should pay attention not to the fact of frequent urination, but also to an increase in the volume of urine released during this. This happens when the body tries to equalize the concentration of glucose in the blood with its concentration in the cells by diluting the blood with intracellular fluid, and this leads to kidney dysfunction and subsequent osmotic diuresis – the release of large amounts of urine and an increased urge to urinate.

Excessive thirst

The next symptom of hyperglycemia is constant thirst. In other words, the result of polyuria is polydipsia – an attempt by the body to replenish the amount of fluid, which leads to an increased desire to drink more. But people tend not to understand this relationship and believe that this increased urination is caused by excessive thirst, and not vice versa, and try to drink less, thinking that this will reduce trips to the toilet. Of course, this is not worth doing, because the main task is to give up sugar, that is, sweet drinks, but not from any liquid.

Constant hunger

Excessive hunger isn’t really caused by high sugar levels, but by low insulin levels. If it becomes insufficient to move glucose molecules from the bloodstream to the cells, where they are used as fuel for cellular processes, then a number of hormones begin to transmit hunger signals to the hypothalamus of the brain. That is, the body in any case does not receive proper energy and asks for food again and again.

Weight Loss

Suffering from hyperglycemia, a person may not understand why he needs to give up sugar if he is already losing weight. Indeed, this is what happens: the body switches to burning fat to support metabolism at the cellular level, plus increased urination and fluid loss leads to a decrease in body weight. Plus, with elevated sugar levels in the urine, there are a huge number of calories that you literally lose when you go to the toilet – this is how the body tries to get rid of excess glucose. Therefore, your inexplicable weight loss is not a miracle, but the sad symptoms of hyperglycemia.

Infectious diseases

Giving up sugar is also important because when it is overabundant in your body, a favorable environment is created for the reproduction and development of various pathogens, which increases your susceptibility to infectious diseases, and especially those associated with the genitourinary system. In addition, increased sugar slows down blood circulation, which in turn reduces the ability of white blood cells to quickly and in sufficient numbers get to where they are needed to fight infections.

Slow healing of wounds

Other symptoms of hyperglycemia that you may notice in yourself are the slow healing of various wounds and cuts. Especially in people with high sugar, purulent wounds do not heal well. Due to dehydration, the skin does not have time to fully recover, dries up and cracks, which leads to re-infection and suppuration, and in addition to this, blood circulation in such patients is disturbed, in particular in the legs, and skin cells receive less nutrients.

Impaired vision

The notorious dehydration of the body as a result of frequent and copious urination is also the cause of visual impairment, its blurriness. The fact is that, as we have already said, the body, trying to dilute the blood with a high concentration of sugar, draws out fluid – this process occurs throughout the body, even in the eye cells, which leads to the development of dry eye syndrome and a deterioration in the ability to correctly focus on objects .

Headaches and impaired concentration

These symptoms are observed in acute hyperglycemia. They are connected with the fact that the brain does not receive the fuel necessary for its full-fledged work – glucose, which it absorbs in the amount of 25% of its total amount entering our body. The lack of glucose affects thinking, the ability to reason, remember information, stay focused on certain tasks, and also leads to headaches.

Constant fatigue

When your blood glucose is too high, your body no longer uses the way it should, and your cells don’t get the fuel they need. As a result, we have the result – a decrease in physical energy at the cellular level. If you also sleep poorly due to frequent urination during the night, then in the morning you will feel even more tired and even exhausted. However, people make the mistake of trying to gain energy by eating high-carbohydrate snacks, which increase blood sugar and only worsen the problem.

Chronic constipation or chronic diarrhea

If you have frequent constipation or diarrhea, these can also be symptoms of hyperglycemia that accompanies diabetes, since glucose levels affect the organs of the gastrointestinal tract. When this influence falls on the large intestine, constipation often occurs, on the small intestine – diarrhea, and it often occurs at night. It just needs a rejection of sugar, strict control of carbohydrates and supervision by a doctor.

Excessive irritability

There are other symptoms of hyperglycemia that can easily be confused with something else – in particular, excessive irritability and moodiness. Sometimes high hyperglycemia even causes depression and makes it impossible to make decisions quickly, all the fault of sugar jumps in the circulatory system. Well, when some previous symptoms of hyperglycemia are added to your well-being, then anyone will become irritable and nervous.

What to do about it

The main reason we have described the symptoms of hyperglycemia is to give you an understanding of the dangers that high blood glucose levels bring.