Pediatric Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)

Pediatric Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)

Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs when the blood glucose is above 250 mg/dl. 

What is Pediatric Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)?

Hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose, is defined as having a blood glucose level above your target. It can be caused by too much food, not enough insulin, less activity than usual, stress or illness. Children will sometimes outgrow their insulin dosage, and have high glucose values.  Be sure to discuss this with your child’s endocrinologist and/or primary care provider. 

Call 911 if the patient is unconscious or having a seizure followed by instructions given by your endocrinologist or primary care provider.

Normal glucose levels:

• Before a meal: 80 – 130
• 2 hours after a meal: less than 160

What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)?

• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Fatigue
• Fruity breath odor
• Stomachache 
• Vomiting
• Weight loss

What are the causes of Pediatric Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)?

• Not eating enough carbs at meals or snacks
• Too much insulin or taking the wrong dose
• Extra exercise
• Illness with vomiting

How is Pediatric Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) treated?

Encourage your child to drink lots of water. Extra rapid acting insulin can be given according to your correction scale. Use the correction scale only before meals and before the bedtime snack.

• 6 – 12 oz. of water every 20 minutes
• Insulin therapy
• Contact your endocrinologist and or primary care provider

Helpful hints:

• Do not give extra insulin, such as mid-morning, mid-afternoon or during the night unless told to do so by the diabetes team or your provider. This can cause “stacking of insulin”, resulting in low blood sugar or glucose.
• When you notice a pattern of high blood glucose values sent your child’s glucose log to the diabetes team.
• High blood sugar does not mean that you are doing something wrong. It is information that can be sued to improve your child’s diabetes control.

Pediatric Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) Doctors and Providers

• Perrin White, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Soumya Adhikari, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Abha Choudhary, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Alissa Doll, MD

  Pediatric Anesthesiologist

• Ximena Lopez, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Ellen Grishman, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Melissa Ham, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Huay-Lin Lo, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Muniza Mogri, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Sudha Mootha, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Nivedita Patni, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Amanda Shaw, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Ming Yang, MD

  Pediatric Endocrinologist

• Bernice Samuel, APRN, FNP

  Nurse Practitioner – Endocrinology

• Preethy Varghese, APRN, PNP-PC

  Nurse Practitioner – Endocrinology

Hyperglycemia > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine

Overview

Whenever you bite into a piece of fruit or eat a bowl of pasta, you’re providing your body with the energy and nutrients it needs to stay healthy. One of the most important nutrients is glucose, a type of sugar. It‘s a main source of energy, and it travels in the bloodstream to cells throughout your body.

Normally, our bodies carefully regulate glucose levels, making sure they don’t get too high or too low. But sometimes, as happens in people with diabetes, the body is unable to effectively control those levels. Hyperglycemia occurs when the level of blood glucose gets too high.

Hyperglycemia can affect people of any age and can cause a range of symptoms, including excessive thirst, hunger, fatigue, and/or an urge to urinate larger amounts than usual. If left untreated for a long period of time, it can lead to serious complications, such as eye damage, kidney problems, and heart disease, among others. Fortunately, treatments are available that can help prevent hyperglycemia and control blood-glucose levels.

What is hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia is a condition in which the level of glucose in the blood is higher than normal. Sometimes called “high blood sugar,” it commonly affects people who have diabetes mellitus, but it can also develop in non-diabetics.

Glucose is the primary source of energy for all cells in our bodies. It comes from the foods we eat, especially carbohydrates. When food reaches the stomach, it is broken down into different parts—one of which is glucose. The intestines absorb the glucose, which then enters the bloodstream and circulates around the body.

Normally, the body uses a hormone called insulin to move glucose from the blood into cells, thereby lowering glucose in the blood and providing cells with energy.

Hyperglycemia can occur when the body does not produce enough insulin or does not respond to insulin correctly. In both cases, glucose stays in the blood instead of being sent to the cells, and as a result, blood-glucose levels remain elevated. If more glucose enters the bloodstream—if you eat carbohydrate-rich food, for example—the blood-glucose levels climb even higher.

In some cases, people with diabetes who have hyperglycemia can develop a complication called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In this condition, the cells cannot access glucose. Instead, the body gets energy by breaking down fats. This process produces compounds called ketones, which build up in the blood, causing it to become acidic. DKA is a life-threatening condition. (DKA is most commonly associated with type 1 diabetes, but can occur in people with type 2 as well.)

In people with type 2 diabetes, very high blood-glucose levels can lead to a life-threatening condition called hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), which causes profound dehydration and a change in mental status.

What causes hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia most commonly affects people who have diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the body makes an adequate amount of insulin, but the cells do not respond to it properly. This is called insulin resistance.

For people with diabetes, hyperglycemia can be triggered by:

• Eating too many carbohydrates
• Not exercising enough
• Not taking enough insulin medication (for type 1 diabetes) or other medications that regulate blood-glucose levels

Hyperglycemia can also be caused by:

• Medications such as corticosteroids, thiazide diuretics, beta-blockers, and antipsychotics
• Certain conditions that affect the pancreas, which produces insulin
• Medical conditions that can cause insulin resistance, such as Cushing’s syndrome and acromegaly
• Pregnancy
• Stress

What are the risk factors for hyperglycemia?

Certain factors or conditions increase the risk for hyperglycemia, including:

• Obesity or being overweight
• Family history of type 2 diabetes
• Personal history of gestational diabetes
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Prediabetes (when blood glucose levels are high, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes)

What are the symptoms of hyperglycemia?

Symptoms of hyperglycemia include:

• Urinating large amounts
• Excessive thirst
• Feeling tired
• Frequent hunger
• Dry mouth
• Weight loss
• Blurred vision
• Recurrent infections (e. g., urinary infections, skin infections)
• Wounds (cuts, scrapes) that heal slowly

In addition to the symptoms of hyperglycemia, people with DKA may also experience:

• Deep, rapid breathing
• Fruity-smelling breath
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Change in mental status
• Loss of consciousness, coma

HHS can cause the following symptoms:

• Dehydration
• Change in mental status
• Loss of consciousness, coma

How is hyperglycemia diagnosed?

A diagnosis of hyperglycemia usually involves a review of your medical history, a physical exam, and blood tests.

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and whether you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors associated with hyperglycemia. He or she will conduct a physical exam.

Ultimately, though, blood tests that measure blood-glucose levels are necessary to definitively diagnose hyperglycemia. For what’s called a “fasting blood glucose” (FBG) test, you will need to abstain from eating for 8 hours prior to the test. Other blood tests may include a hemoglobin A1C test (also known as glycated hemoglobin test) and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

How is hyperglycemia treated?

The treatment depends on the cause of hyperglycemia, and may include the following:

• Insulin. For people with type 1 diabetes, insulin is the main treatment for hyperglycemia. In some cases, it may also be used to treat people with type 2 diabetes.
• Glucose-lowering medications. Various drugs such as metformin may be used to lower blood-glucose levels.
• Glucose monitoring. People with diabetes should monitor their blood glucose levels as instructed by their doctor.
• Lifestyle changes. People with diabetes can reduce the risk of developing hyperglycemia or treat existing hyperglycemia by getting regular exercise, following a nutritious diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.

DKA and HHS are medical emergencies. They are treated with intravenous fluids, electrolytes, and insulin.

What is the outlook for people who have hyperglycemia?

In general, hyperglycemia that is transient does not cause long-term problems. But if hyperglycemia persists, it can lead to serious complications, including eye problems, kidney damage, nerve damage, and cardiovascular disease.

But with appropriate treatment and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, people can reduce the risk of hyperglycemia, lower their chances of having serious complications, and live healthy lives.

What makes Yale Medicine unique in its treatment of hyperglycemia?

“The Yale Diabetes Center provides individualized care for adults with hyperglycemia whether it is transient (such as medication-induced), prediabetes, or type 1 or type 2 diabetes,” says Beatrice Lupsa, MD, a Yale Medicine endocrinologist who specializes in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. “Our staff includes endocrinologists, mid-level practitioners, and a dietitian. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures people with blood glucose problems get self-management skills and knowledge to achieve and maintain long-term optimal blood glucose control. We focus on lifestyle interventions, including healthy diet and exercise. Our patients have access to the most advanced medical care, including the latest medications and technologies to prevent hyperglycemic complications and maintain better health throughout their lives.”

High blood sugar in men: symptoms and causes

Contents

• 1 High blood sugar in men: symptoms and causes
  • 1.1 High blood sugar: causes and symptoms in men
    • 1.1.1 What is high blood sugar blood sugar?
  • 1.2 What are the symptoms of high blood sugar in men?
  • 1.3 Who is at risk of developing high blood sugar?
  • 1.4 What habits can raise sugar levels in men?
  • 1.5 Diseases that cause high blood sugar in men
  • 1. 6 Role of diet in high blood sugar in men
  • 1.7 Physical activity as a way to lower blood sugar in men
  • men
  • 1.9 How is high blood sugar diagnosed in men?
  • 1.10 Consequences of uncontrolled high blood sugar in men
  • 1.11 How can I prevent high blood sugar in men?
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What are the symptoms of high blood sugar in men?
      • 1.13.0.2 What are the causes of high blood sugar in men?
      • 1.13.0.3 How to determine the blood sugar level in men?
      • 1.13.0.4 What are the complications of high blood sugar in men?
      • 1.13.0.5 How to treat high blood sugar in men?
      • 1.13.0.6 Can men prevent high blood sugar?

Find out what high blood sugar means in men 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 lead to 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.

High blood sugar: causes and symptoms in men

What is high blood sugar?

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, blurred vision, slow wound healing, lethargy, etc.

What are the symptoms of high blood sugar in men?

Excessive fatigue – Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to weakness and fatigue 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.

Extreme thirst – due to the body’s increased need for fluid, elevated sugar levels can lead to supersaturation of blood glucose 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.

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.

Men who lead an unhealthy lifestyle , including those who consume foods high in carbohydrates and fats, as well as those who are inactive and do not control 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?

Improper 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 drugs to treat asthma or skin conditions, may cause an increase in blood sugar levels.

Obesity, which is a risk factor for developing 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.

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.
• Advice: Eating regularly will help control blood sugar levels in men.

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

High 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.

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.

1. 1. • Hypoglycemic agents:
        • Metformin
        • Gliptins
        • Sulfonylureas
        • Meglitinides
        • Thiazolididiones
      • Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors: 900 82
        • Acarbose
        • Miglitol

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.

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.

Consequences 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 when blood sugar levels are elevated, if levels are 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 levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Choose the right exercises for you that will allow you to keep fit.

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

• chicken

• carrots

• blueberries

• fish

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• tomatoes

• grapefruit

• legumes

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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 monitor 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.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the symptoms of high blood sugar in men?

Symptoms of high blood sugar in men may include frequent urination, feeling thirsty and hungry, tiredness 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?

Elevated 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, physical activity, stress reduction), medication (insulin tablets or injections), blood sugar control, and visits to a doctor 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.

causes of high and low blood sugar

Glucose and its metabolites play an important role in providing cells with energy. If the glucose level is elevated or lowered for a long time, this leads to dangerous consequences and can even cause death. That is why doctors attach great importance to this indicator.

Glucose in human blood

The concentration of sugar in the blood changes during the day several times, it depends on the food consumed. The lowest level is observed in the morning, immediately after waking up; after eating it, of course, rises. However, there are a number of pathologies in which there is a violation of the regulation systems.

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Sugars are needed by the body to supply cells with energy. Carbohydrates that a person receives with food, entering the intestines, break down into sugar molecules, in this form they enter the systemic circulation. The pancreas produces a hormone (insulin) that ensures the correct and complete absorption of sugar molecules. Without it, glucose will not be absorbed correctly, therefore, tissue cells will be left without the right amount of “fuel”.

When should you measure your blood sugar?

People whose pancreas does not produce enough of the hormone are diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. In this case, there is a deviation from the norm in a large direction. This condition negatively affects the state of blood vessels and human organs. Cells are deficient in energy.

An analysis for the concentration of glucose is prescribed in the following cases:

• Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus;
• control and correction of treatment in patients with diabetes;
• increased risk and hereditary burden;
• complaints that indicate the development of the disease;
• pregnancy;
• loss of consciousness for no apparent reason;
• the presence of disorders of carbohydrate metabolism;
• overweight;
• sedentary lifestyle;
• ischemic heart disease;
• chronic hepatic pathologies;
• high blood pressure.

How is blood sugar measured?

There are several ways to determine the concentration of sugar in the blood. They should be considered in more detail.

Glucometer

This method is considered universal and is needed by people whose lives depend on sugar levels. Most instruments must first be calibrated. It is better not to neglect this procedure, otherwise the information received will be incorrect. Calibration rules are usually described in the instructions for the instrument.

Measurements should be taken three times a day – before and after meals, at bedtime. When blood sampling is done on an empty stomach, it is important to remember that the last meal before this is allowed 14 hours before.

The fence is carried out from the finger. Before taking blood, wash your hands well with soap and water. The skin of the finger is pierced with a special needle. To make the procedure less painful, it is recommended to make a fence on the side of the fingertip, and not in its center. After the first drop of blood appears on the finger, it must be blotted with a sterile napkin, and the second one should be applied to the test strip. Then insert it into the device, which will take all the necessary measurements and display the result on the scoreboard.

Continuous glucose monitoring

For this, a special CGMS complex is used, which includes three components:

• platinum sensor;
• transmitter and screen;
• device for transmitting data from the transmitter to a computer.

The sensor is placed subcutaneously, it is painless. Then a transmitter is attached to it, the screen is suspended from the patient’s belt. Once every 10 seconds, the device automatically takes measurements and every 5 minutes records the average value of the results. The duration of the study is usually 3-5 days. After the study is completed, the digital information is transferred to a computer and analyzed by the attending physician.

Mean glucose test (HbA1c)

HbA1c is hemoglobin containing glucose. No special preparation for the test is needed, the patient should not limit himself in food and drinks. Also, he does not need to refrain from emotional and physical exertion. Blood for analysis can be taken from a vein or a finger – it depends on where the analysis is performed (at home, in a doctor’s office or laboratory). Although HbA1c testing is more expensive than plasma glucose testing, its benefits are undeniable.

An HbA1c test is prescribed in the following cases:

• newly diagnosed diabetes;
• repeated elevated blood sugar;
• treatment adjustment.

Glucose tolerance test

It is carried out in the morning, on an empty stomach (fasting should be at least 10-12 hours). After the first sampling (blood is taken from a vein), the patient should drink a glucose solution (75 g of glucose powder per 250 ml of water). The solution should be drunk slowly, preferably within 5-7 minutes. After 2 hours, a second blood sampling is performed. Then both results are compared, on the basis of which it is possible to draw a conclusion about the norm, prediabetes or diabetes.

What can affect the level of glucose in the analysis?

In order for the results of the analysis to be reliable, you need to follow some preparation rules:

• in most cases blood is donated on an empty stomach, you can drink water;
• better sleep well;
• avoid too much mental stress, stress and emotions;
• do not brush your teeth with sugar paste;
• do not chew gum;
• do not smoke;
• do not take medication, and if necessary, inform the doctor;
• do not donate blood for colds and acute infections;
• do not consume alcohol and fatty foods the day before;
• not to do sports the day before;
• do not take therapeutic procedures and do not conduct research – massage, physiotherapy, x-rays, ultrasound;
• the morning before the analysis should be carried out as calmly as possible.

Products that may affect the results of the analysis:

• fatty and spicy foods;
• sweets;
• packaged juices;
• fast food;
• sweet carbonated drinks.

Normal blood sugar

Blood glucose norm by age and gender

By gender, the values ​​for men and women are the same. The exceptions are pregnancy and menopause.

Abnormal glucose

Blood glucose levels may be above normal or below normal.

Causes of high glucose levels:

• stress, emotional stress;
• intense physical activity;
• eating large amounts of carbohydrates;
• smoking;
• diseases of the pancreas;
• prolonged pain;
• taking certain medications – thiazides, glucocorticosteroids;
• extensive burns;
• lack of B vitamins;
• elevated body temperature – if a person has a viral or bacterial infection;
• traumatic brain injury – provided that the damage has touched the areas that are responsible for the absorption of glucose.

Reasons for low glucose levels:

• improper treatment of diabetes;
• insulin overdose;
• endocrine diseases;
• taking certain medications;
• impaired functioning of the kidneys and liver;
• surgical treatment of the gastrointestinal tract.

Increased level

A condition in which there is a sharp increase in glucose levels is called hyperglycemia. This occurs when the pancreas hormone (insulin) is deficient or when the body does not use it properly.

Signs of hyperglycemia:

• constant fatigue;
• frequent urination;
• blurred vision;
• feeling of thirst;
• migraine;
• trouble concentrating;
• weight loss.

If no measures are taken to normalize a person’s condition, diabetic ketoacidosis develops. Its signs:

• vomiting;
• epigastric pain;
• tachycardia;
• smell of acetone from the mouth;
• presence of ketone bodies in urine and blood;
• loss of vision;
• disorientation.

Reduced level

Decreased glucose levels are called hypoglycemia.

Characteristic symptoms:

• dizziness;
• sudden change of mood;
• confusion;
• weakness in limbs;
• chills;
• tachycardia;
• clammy cold sweat;
• blanching of the skin;
• hunger;
• lethargy and increased drowsiness;
• tingling in the region of the lips;
• pre-fainting state.

Sudden and severely falling glucose levels can lead to fainting or coma. Therefore, at the first signs of hypoglycemia, you need to supply the body with fast carbohydrates – have a snack with sweets, drink juice or glucose tablets.

How to bring glucose levels back to normal?

To maintain optimal blood glucose levels, you need to diet, exercise, lose weight (if it is excessive), avoid stress and get enough sleep at night.

The diet should include dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates.