Hypoglycemia vs. Hyperglycemia

Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar.

Body’s using more glucose than it’s producing.

<70 mg/dL

Hypoglycemia: Causes

Excersise,

Alcohol consumption,

Excess insluin or skipping meals

Hypoglycemia: Symptoms

“Cool and clammy need some candy”

Cool & clammy skin,

Pale,

Irritable & hungry,

Lethary,

Confusion,

Slurred speech,

Shakiness,

Obtunded (can lead to coma).

Hypoglycemia: Treatment

15-15 rule

For conscious patients able to swallow:

1. Give patient 15g fast acting carb (jello, orange juice, dextrose gel)

2. Wait 15 minutes & recheck blood glucose

3. Repeat steps 1 & 2 until glucose >70 mg/dL

For unresponsive patients (medical emergency):

1. Give 25g Dextrose 50% or glucagon IM/IV/SQ

2. Wait 15 minutes & recheck blood glucose

3. Repeat steps 1 & 2 until flucose >70 mg/dL

CALL MD IMMEDIATELY

Hypoglycemia: Education

Always carry glucagon kit & fast acting carb,

Check blood sugar levels regularly,

Eat a well balanced diet,

Hypoglycemia can mimic the effects of alcohol!

Hyperglycemia

High blood sugar.

Body is unable to use insulin properly.

>200 mg/dL

Hyperglycemia: Causes

Missing insulin doses,

Illness, stress or infection,

Poor diet (lots of sweets, salt & fat).

Hyperglycemia: Symptoms

“If skin is dry, sugar’s high”

3 Ps: Polyuria, Polydipsia, Polyphagia,

Hot & dry skin,

Vision problems,

Fruity breath,

Numbness/tingling,

Dry mouth.

Hyperglycemia: Treatment

Insulin,

Oral hypoglycemic agents,

Assess for signs of DKA or HHNS,

Diabetic Diet.

Avoid:

Saturated fats,

Trans fats,

Refined sugars,

High sodium,

Skipping meals.

Recommended:

Whole grains,

Fiber-rich foods,

Fruits & vegetables,

Low bad dairy,

Lean meats & protein.

Hyperglycemia: Education

Medication & diet compliance,

Check blood sugar levels regularly,

Stress management,

Regular exercise & weight management.