Blood sugar level in the body needs to be maintained at a certain levels; otherwise it can cause major problems. Let us explore the signs and symptoms of high & low blood sugar.
Blood sugar refers to the glucose that is present in the blood of an individual. It is transported from the intestines to body cells, through the bloodstream. Blood sugar serves as one of the most important sources of energy for the body. The concentration of blood sugar, also known as glucose level, in the body is regulated with the help of insulin. Blood sugar level falling in the range of 70-120 is considered healthy. If the level persists to be anywhere above or below it, then it means that the person is suffering from either high or low blood sugar level.
If, for any reasons, the level of insulin in the body increases, it leads to a drop in the sugar levels, in other words, the condition gives rise to low blood sugar, which is medically termed as hypoglycemia. On the other hand, if there is a decrease in the insulin levels, it may lead to high blood sugar levels, which is medically termed as hyperglycemia. In either case, it is necessary to act quickly and seeks doctor’s advice, because both the conditions might trigger a number of health problems, if left untreated for a long time. In the following lines, we will tell you the causes and symptoms of high as well as low blood sugar.
Signs & Symptoms of High & Low Blood Sugar
Symptoms of High Blood Sugar
Frequent urination
Lethargy
Nausea
Extreme hunger
Too much thirst
Blurred vision
Dry mouth
Persistent infections
Impotence
Slow healing of wounds
Inexplicable weight loss
Dry itchy skin
Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar
Cold sweat
Confusion
Constant craving for food
Distorted eyesight
Exhaustion
Fast heartbeat
Fretfulness
Giddiness
Headaches
Lack of concentration
Numbness in lips
Periods of unconsciousness
Quivering
Seizures
Sweating
Tetchiness
Tingling sensation in body parts
Weakness
Wooziness
Causes of High & Low Blood Sugar
Causes of High Blood Sugar
Chronic Pancreatitis
Gestational Diabetes
Glucagonoma
Cushing's syndrome
Inactive Lifestyle
Stress
Heredity
Poor Diet
Excess Intake of Carbohydrates
Short gap between meals and snacks
Causes of Low Blood Sugar
Too little food
Over medication
More activity than usual
Long gap between meals and snacks
Excessive Consumption of Alcohol
Excessive insulin in the blood
Disease in Adrenal Glands
Weakened Pituitary Glands
Malnutrition
Fasting
Severe malfunctioning of lever
Lack of Carbohydrate in the diet
Weight Loss
Renal Failure
Inadequate Adrenal Secretion
Problem caused by stomach surgery
Checking Your Blood Sugar
The following blood glucose laboratory tests can help your keep a check on your blood sugar levels.
Fasting blood sugar (ie, glucose) test (FBS)
Urine glucose test
Two-hr postprandial blood sugar test (2-h PPBS)
Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)
Intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT)
Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C)
Self-monitoring of glucose level via patient testing