Let's discover together everything there is to know about blood sugar (= glucose levels). Why is it important to monitor blood sugar levels? What are hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia?
Sugar is simply the body's fuel. It, in the form of glucose, is transported via the blood to various organs. Its main function is to provide cells with all the energy needed for optimal body function.
It is crucial to monitor blood sugar levels!
Too low or too high blood sugar
Firstly, it's important to know that blood sugar corresponds to the level of glucose in an individual's blood. Fasting, the normal value of blood sugar ranges from 0.8 to 1 gram per liter of blood. Hypoglycemia is when blood sugar levels are too low, and hyperglycemia, on the contrary, is when blood sugar levels are too high.
As for diabetes, it is defined by blood sugar levels above the threshold of 1.26 grams per liter chronically (meaning it doesn't improve) and daily. Know that it can be easily detected through urine analysis. However, the diagnosis of diabetes must be confirmed through a fasting blood test with blood sugar measurement; a definite diagnosis is made once certain markers have been identified.
Furthermore, it should be noted that diabetics can easily monitor their blood sugar regularly using a portable blood glucose meter (self-monitoring). This modern tool requires a blood sample directly from the fingertip. There are also patch glucose monitoring devices available, which avoid the need for multiple daily finger pricks.
Hypo or hyperglycemia: what to do?
You should know that both high and low blood sugar levels can cause various problems. One thing is certain: in both situations, quick action is necessary. This is absolutely essential.
Is your blood sugar too low?
There are many symptoms of hypoglycemia. Here's a list: profuse sweating, fatigue, dizziness, paleness, palpitations, difficulty concentrating, vision problems, and finally loss of consciousness. It should be noted that these different symptoms go away after sugar consumption. Also, a new blood sugar measurement fifteen minutes after sugar intake allows the individual to see if their blood sugar has returned to "normal."
For diabetics, hypoglycemia can occur after an inappropriate insulin dose injection. Such an event can also happen after a long period without eating a meal or having a snack. It is also entirely possible after physical exertion greater than usual. Furthermore, know that if a severe hypoglycemia occurs in a diabetic, loss of consciousness occurs. Swallowing sugar is then simply impossible. It is indeed the individual's surroundings who must administer glucagon to the individual. This is a natural hyperglycemic hormone that a diabetic must constantly have on hand, just in case.
Is your blood sugar too high?
Chronic hyperglycemia is a signal for a diabetic. It is a chronic condition that occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin (type 1 diabetes), or when it cannot produce enough insulin (type 2 diabetes). If an individual has type 2 diabetes, the body does not respond well to it. Thus, it simply becomes resistant to insulin. As a reminder, insulin is a hormone that effectively allows the liver and muscles to absorb glucose and consequently removes it from the blood.
Insulin injection is necessary to restore an acceptable level of insulin and allow the body to absorb glucose. Insulin acts like a key opening the cell door. Without insulin, the cell door does not open, and glucose in the blood will not be consumed.