Abnormal blood glucose levels mean a range below or above the normal value. The medical term for high blood sugar conditions is hyperglycemia, and that for low blood sugar is hypoglycemia. The former occurs when sugar is not metabolized into energy and remains in the bloodstream, while the latter situation arises when the blood glucose level falls below what is considered a healthy range. The article attempts to shed light on both of these conditions.
Symptoms
High blood sugar signs and symptoms include the following:
- Getting extremely thirsty
- Experiencing excessive urination
- Having difficulties seeing or focusing
- Feeling exhausted
- Experiencing nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
- Having breath that smells fruity
- Getting infections, persistent sores, and cuts
- Noticing unexplained weight loss
Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar include the following:
- Being twitchy or unsteady
- Feeling hungry
- Feeling drained and exhausted
- Feeling dizzy, lightheadedness, confused, or agitated
- Getting frequent headaches
- Falling unconscious
- Experiencing seizures
Causes
The exact causes of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia are still not known. A mix of hereditary and environmental factors is thought to be the cause of blood sugar abnormalities. What those elements might be is unknown. Family history could be significant in cases of hyperglycemia. Environmental elements and geographic location can also affect the prevalence of this condition. Causes of hypoglycemia can range from inadequate consumption of carbohydrates, excessive physical activity, being in hot and humid weather for extended periods, or diabetes treatment.
Treatment
The body generally produces insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. This hormone allows the cells to utilize the circulating sugar in the blood. In cases of abnormally high or low glucose levels, treatment options to check blood sugar must be considered. These include the following:
Treatment options for hypoglycemia include glucagon injection and intravenous glucose.
Natural remedies for low blood sugar include eating fast-acting carbohydrates and having healthy meals or snacks to prevent drops in glucose concentration.
Treatment options for hyperglycemia include insulin therapy and electrolyte and fluid replacement in emergency cases.
Natural remedies
Natural remedies for high blood sugar include the following:
- Reducing carbohydrate intake: Blood sugar levels are significantly impacted by the amount of carbohydrates one consumes. The body transforms it into sugars, primarily glucose. Insulin then assists the body in using and storing it as energy. When one ingests too many carbohydrates or has problems with hormone function, this mechanism can break down, and blood glucose levels can rise. So, control carb consumption by keeping track of the requirement and amount.
- Eating more fiber: Fiber gradually increases blood sugar levels by delaying carbohydrate breakdown and sugar absorption. High-fiber foods to help with blood sugar include fruits, veggies, legumes, and whole grains.
- Eating foods low in GI: The glycemic index (GI) measures how quickly the body digests and absorbs carbs. This influences the rate at which the blood sugar levels rise.
- Eating meals at regular intervals: One should spread out their daily calorie consumption, beginning with breakfast. Blood sugar levels fluctuate more when more food is consumed in one or two meals daily. Eating three balanced meals daily, along with two healthy snacks, can help keep blood sugar levels steady.
- Exercising regularly: Maintaining a workout routine and other treatments are essential. If a person has ketonuria, it is advisable not to engage in hard exercise.
It is crucial to keep the body’s blood sugar levels as close to the target range to prevent or delay long-term health conditions like heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disorders.
