Hypoglycemia: How Low Can You Go?
Preventing Hypoglycemia
To prevent hypoglycemia, the ADA recommends increasing the number of times you check blood sugar levels (particularly before driving), educating family and friends about the condition and how to help you, wearing an ID bracelet that identifies you as a person with diabetes, and filling a prescription for glucagon and making sure those around you know how to use it.
Most important, work with your doctor, who may recommend a continuous glucose sensor that measures blood sugar every few minutes. "The idea is to do away with low blood sugar for a period of weeks or months," says Buse, which will "sort of [reset] your body so you'll recognize the signs of hypoglycemia" if it happens again.
Is This Normal? Get the Facts Fast!
Answer:
0-69
70-130
131+
Your level is currently
If the level is below 70 and you are experiencing symptoms such as shaking, sweating or difficulty thinking, you will need to raise the number immediately. A quick solution is to eat a few pieces of hard candy or 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey. Recheck your numbers again in 15 minutes to see if the number has gone up. If not, repeat the steps above or call your doctor.
People who experience hypoglycemia several times in a week should call their health care provider. It's important to monitor your levels each day so you can make sure your numbers are within the range. If you are pregnant always consult with your health care provider.
Congratulations on taking steps to manage your health.
However, it's important to continue to track your numbers so that you can make lifestyle changes if needed. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
Your level is high if this reading was taken before eating. Aim for 70-130 before meals and less than 180 two hours after meals.
Even if your number is high, it's not too late for you to take control of your health and lower your blood sugar.
One of the first steps is to monitor your levels each day. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
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