Categories: 미분류

High blood sugar, Signs Your Blood Sugar Is Out of Whack

What Does It Mean When Your Blood Sugar Is “Out of Balance”?

High blood sugar, Blood sugar (glucose) is the primary source of energy for our body. When we consume carbohydrates, they are converted into glucose, which travels through the bloodstream to provide energy. However, for glucose to be effectively used by cells, the hormone insulin is needed.

If the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or if the cells don’t respond properly to it (insulin resistance), glucose levels can become too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia). These imbalances can lead to serious health issues. Recognizing early warning signs is crucial for proper management and prevention of complications.

1. Signs of High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

Hyperglycemia is most commonly associated with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance. If fasting blood sugar is 126 mg/dL or higher, or if post-meal blood sugar exceeds 200 mg/dL, diabetes may be diagnosed. Below is an example of how blood sugar levels may differ in people with hyperglycemia.

Time	Normal Blood Sugar (mg/dL)	Hyperglycemic Blood Sugar (mg/dL)
Fasting	70–100	120–140
2 Hours After Meal	Below 140	180–200

Common Symptoms of High Blood Sugar:

Frequent urination – The kidneys attempt to remove excess glucose through urine, increasing bathroom visits.
Excessive thirst – Frequent urination leads to dehydration, causing persistent thirst.
Fatigue – Cells cannot efficiently use glucose for energy, leading to persistent tiredness.
Blurred vision – High blood sugar can cause swelling in the eye’s lens, making it difficult to focus.
Slow wound healing – Poor circulation and weakened immune function delay the healing process.
Frequent infections – High glucose levels create an environment where bacteria and fungi thrive.

Real-Life Case

A middle-aged man (let’s call him Mr. A) visited the doctor due to a small wound on his heel that wouldn’t heal for weeks. His blood test revealed an HbA1c level significantly above the normal range, indicating prolonged high blood sugar. This case highlights how hyperglycemia can go unnoticed until a serious symptom appears.

2. Signs of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Hypoglycemia can occur if a diabetic person takes too much insulin, skips meals, or engages in excessive physical activity. Symptoms of low blood sugar develop quickly and can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

Common Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar:

Shaking and sweating – The brain releases adrenaline in response to low glucose, causing tremors and cold sweats.
Dizziness and headaches – The brain relies on glucose, so a drop in levels can cause confusion and headaches.
Extreme hunger – The body signals an urgent need for food, sometimes leading to overeating.
Mood swings and irritability – Sudden anger or sadness can result from low glucose levels.
Rapid heartbeat – The body releases stress hormones that increase heart rate.
Seizures or unconsciousness – In severe cases, hypoglycemia can cause fainting or convulsions.

Real-Life Case

A diabetic patient, Mr. B, injected insulin but forgot to eat before engaging in intense exercise. That night, he suffered from a hypoglycemic episode and lost consciousness. Fortunately, his family acted quickly, preventing serious complications. This case emphasizes the dangers of low blood sugar if not managed properly.

3. How to Manage and Prevent Blood Sugar Imbalances

Regular Monitoring

If you are at risk for diabetes, checking your blood sugar before and after meals can help track changes and identify potential issues early.

Balanced Diet

Choose complex carbohydrates like whole grains instead of refined sugar.
Include lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu) to stabilize blood sugar.
Eat fiber-rich foods (vegetables, legumes) to slow glucose absorption.

Exercise Routine

Aerobic exercise (walking, jogging) improves insulin sensitivity.
Strength training helps muscles use glucose efficiently.

Stress Management

Stress hormones like cortisol can spike blood sugar levels.
Activities like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help regulate stress.

Consult a Healthcare Professional

If taking medications like insulin, consult a doctor or pharmacist about proper dosage.
Consider seeing a dietitian to develop a personalized meal plan.

Conclusion and Precautions

Blood sugar imbalances often start with mild symptoms like fatigue, thirst, or shakiness. However, if left unchecked, they can lead to serious complications such as vision impairment, kidney disease, and cardiovascular problems. If you experience persistent thirst, blurred vision, or unexplained fatigue for several days, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider.

Regular check-ups and lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the risk of complications. The earlier you identify and address blood sugar imbalances, the better your chances of maintaining good health.

References

American Diabetes Association. (2013). Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus. Diabetes Care, 36(Suppl 1), S67-S74.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Hyperglycemia. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/
Korean Diabetes Association. (2021). Diabetes Treatment Guidelines. Seoul: Korean Diabetes Association.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2016). Global Report on Diabetes. WHO Document Production Services, Geneva, Switzerland.