Hyperglycemia
You have Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar when your blood sugar is above normal and continuously stays above normal. Blood sugars are considered out of control when they arise above 100 mg/dL before meals and above 140mg/dL after meals. This will happen to diabetics from time to time, but if this happens frequently, you should contact your doctor immediately!
***NOTE***
There is always the possibility of ketoacidosis and diabetic coma
if the illness is left untreated. Please consult your physician immediate if you have these
symptoms.
Treatment of Hyperglycemia
The long term health effects and risks can be improved. You should work closely with your physician to keep your hyperglycemia under control. Your doctor may suggest some of the following:
- Changes in Medications and Dosage
- Meal Planning
- Increase in Physical Activity
- Closer Watch of Blood Sugar Levels
- Communication with Health Professionals about Options
Ketoacidosis
Ketoacidosis is a serious condition that usually occurs in people with type 1 diabetes. It happens when the body becomes too acidic. This is caused by of high levels of ketones. Ketones are substances that form when the body does not have enough insulin. If that happens, the body cannot use sugar and instead starts to burn body fat as fuel. If you don't take extra insulin when your body begins to make ketones. Your blood sugar level will keep increasing, Ketones begin to build up in the blood and make your body tissues too acidic, then the body cells may be damaged, which can lead to severe illness and even death.
Ketoacidosis can develop very quickly in type 1 diabetes, especially when you're sick with a cold, flu or any other kind of infection, or during periods of severe stress. That's why it's so important to check your blood sugar and urine ketone levels several times a day when you are sick.
Treatment of Ketoacidosis
First and foremost you should contact your doctor. If you cannot reach your doctor, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911. Especially if your Blood sugar is above 400 and you have Ketones in your urine.
Related links
• Type 1 Diabetes - Symptoms, Treatments, and Long Term Concerns
• Type 2 Diabetes - Symptoms, Treatments...Are you at risk?
• Blood Glucose - Levels, Tests and Goals
• Hypoglycemia - Symptoms, Treatments, Causes and Prevention
• Long Term Concerns