Hypoglycemia vs. Hyperglycemia

Since we are on the topic of talking about diabetes, whether it is Type 1 or Type 2, we might as well continue to talk about it--this time it is hypoglycemia vs. hyperglycemia.

What does these two have in common with diabetes? It has something to do with our blood sugar levels, either too low or too high.

What is hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia?

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood glucose, or blood sugar level. Our body needs glucose in order for us to have enough energy to function. During the time that we eat, our blood absorbs glucose. If we have eaten just a little bit too much, or more that what our body need, then your liver and muscles will store the extra glucose. When our blood sugar level decreases, a hormone will send a message to your liver to release glucose.

The following are some symptoms of hypoglycemia:

-Fast heartbeat

-Sweating

-Hunger

-Weakness/Fatigue

-Sweating

-50 to 54 mg/dL

People who are suffering from diabetes, this is often a side effect as a result of diabetic medications. We can increase our blood sugar level by eating or drinking something that have carbohydrates.

This is not limited to people suffering from diabetes. Non-diabetics can also have hypoglycemia; some of the causes could come from medications, hormones, enzyme deficiencies, just to name a few.

Unlike hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia is the result of having a blood glucose level that is abnormally high. The blood sugar level with hyperglycemia is above 200 mg/dL. This is usually a likely sign of diabetes, whether it is Type 1 or Type 2 and/or prediabetes.

Other causes of hyperglycemia may include pancreatic cancer, certain medications, pancreatitis, and Cushing's Syndrome, just to name a few.

These are some symptoms of hyperglycemia:

-Frequent urination

-Dry skin

-Blurred vision

-Extreme thirst

-Hunger

-Drowsiness

Severely high blood sugar levels may cause a medical emergency as in diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, or hyperglycemic hypersmolar non-ketotic syndrome, or HHNS (also known as hyperglycemic hypersmolar state).

With Type 1 diabetes, insulin is the go-to treatment and for life-threatening increases in blood sugar levels. As with Type 2 diabetes, a combination of oral and injectable medications is usually the best solution in controlling diabetes.

Now that we know the difference between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, we can more likely manage our blood sugar levels at a reasonable level. If your blood sugar level becomes unmanageable, please consult a physician or doctor.

Have you had experiences with either hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia? Please feel free to post your comments or give feedback in the Comments box.


Next post: What are the Dangerous Medication Combinations?