Managing High Blood Sugar

Managing blood sugar is an integral part of treating diabetes. Diabetes occurs when your pancreas can no longer deliver adequate insulin to the body, or when the body is sensitive to insulin. Without enough insulin, your glucose levels can spiral out of control. High blood glucose, also known as hypoglycemia is the simplest form of type 2 diabetes. Bringing your glucose level down is critical to treating hyperglycemia. If untreated the following can occur:

·       Vision Loss

·       Cardiovascular Disease

·       Nerve Damage

·       Skin Damage

·       Joint Problems

Many people with diabetes know the signs of hyperglycemia. As indicated by the Mayo Clinic, signs and symptoms of high glucose begin when levels are higher than 200 mg/dL. Warning signs include:

·       Dizziness

·       Extreme Headaches

·       Frequent Urination

·       Dehydration

·       Blurry Vision

·       Stomach pains

·       Dry Mouth

·       Confusion

If you experience any of these, get help immediately. The goal is to prevent hyperglycemia before it starts. The onset of hyperglycemia can be quick, happening only within the span of a few days. Symptoms worsen the longer you have hyperglycemia. The key is to know what your blood glucose level is. The American Heart Association (AHA) standards for glucose levels are 70 to 130 mg/dL before meals and under 180 mg/dL after eating.  

Dietary Changes

Eating a healthy diet not only makes you feel better, it can lower your blood sugar levels. Making changes in your diet are one of the cornerstones of treatment. Sugar intake should be monitored closely. Sugars have more influence on glucose than any other substance we eat. It’s critical to realize that carbohydrates can really raise glucose. One approach to achieve healthy glucose levels is to eat food with a low glycemic index (GI). These include:

·       Stone Ground Wheat

·       Oats

·       Vegetables

·       Beans

Foods with a high GI should be avoided. These include:

·       White Rice

·       White Bread

·       Popcorn

·       Pumpkin

While attempting to control hyperglycemia, you should limit high GI foods. Controlling what foods you eat is only part of the process. Portion control is also essential. Over indulging can cause spikes in your blood sugar. By reducing the intake of junk foods high in processed sugar you can lower your blood glucose level. Concentrating on entire meals is a popular approach that yields good results.

Exercise to Lower Blood Sugar

Eating alone isn’t enough to treat diabetes. By exercising your body will process food more efficiently. Moderate movement can bring down your blood glucose levels to a healthy level. The AHA recommends that 30 minutes of exercise no less than 5 days a week for the average person. Exercise ideas include:

·       Brisk Walks

·       Swimming

·       Cycling

·       Elliptical Machines

Consider checking your levels before and after your workouts, much the same way you’d do before and after a meal. This can help you stay on track and see your progress, which is a great motivating factor. Your readings can also let you know if you have to modify insulin admission. If your glucose level is high, you should avoid exercising until you consult with a specialist. If your levels are above 350 mg/dL, you should contact 911 immediately

Treatment Planning

Examine your current treatment plan today. Eating healthy and exercising are two ways that you can bring your glucose level down and help you control your weight. Being overweight carries higher risks for developing serious health problems, including type 2 diabetes.

Even diabetics who eat right and exercise will need to take additional measures. Overseeing high glucose may also require the use of insulin medication and other drugs. Medication is carefully administered on a case by case basis. The planning of doses is adjusted to handle blood sugar spikes before they happen. Each patient is unique and treatment is contingent upon many different variables. The seriousness of your prognosis may change as time goes on.

If your glucose levels are high and you suspect you need treatment, see a specialist today about an insulin screening. Your health care provider will work with you to determine what course of action is best for you. Total Home Health can connect you with experienced health care experts who are ready to help you live a long, healthy and fulfilling life. Join today to learn jumpstart a longer, healthier life.