My Life is Vital™ - Diabetes Warning Signs

Diabetes Center

Diabetes Warning Signs

Vital Healthcare Group

If you have diabetes, it’s important to keep your blood sugar levels even in order to stay healthy. Yet sometimes blood glucose levels dip dangerously low (hypoglycemia) or soar too high (hyperglycemia). Recognizing the warning signs, symptoms and treatments may save your life.

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Hypoglycemia is abnormally low blood sugar levels (typically less than 70 mg/dl). The target fasting level for a person with diabetes is 70 to 130 mg/dl.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) include the following:

Shakiness
Dizziness
Sweating
Hunger
Headache
Pale skin color
Sudden moodiness or behavior changes, such as crying for no apparent reason
Clumsy or jerky movements
Seizure
Difficulty paying attention, or confusion
Tingling sensations around the mouth

Treating Hypoglycemia

To raise your blood sugar fast, eat form of sugar, such as 3 glucose tablets, 1/2 cup of fruit juice, or 5-6 pieces of hard candy. Ask your doctor or diabetes educator about the best treatment for hypoglycemia in your situation.

Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)

Hyperglycemia is abnormally high blood sugar levels. Even if your blood sugar is controlled, hyperglycemia can occur when you are sick.

The signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia or high blood sugar include:

High blood glucose
High levels of sugar in the urine
Frequent urination
Increased thirst

Sometimes, sleepiness and even confusion are early warning signs. Rarely, when blood sugar levels become dangerously high, coma and death can occur. More often, chronic, long-term hyperglycemia can lead to health complications, including vision damage and nerve, kidney and heart disease.

Treating Hyperglycemia

Treatment for hyperglycemia includes physical activity, consistent daily monitoring of blood sugar and adjusting diet or dosage of diabetes medications accordingly under a doctor's guidance.

Be sure and talk with your doctor about your blood glucose levels and how often you should check them. Checking your blood sugar and treating high blood sugar early will help you avoid problems associated with hyperglycemia.

If you have any of these diabetes warning signs, contact your health care provider right away so you can get tested or screened.