Recognizing the Three Signs of a Diabetic Emergency: A Guide to High Blood Sugar Management

Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions around the world.

It's characterized by high blood sugar levels that, if not appropriately managed, can lead to severe complications and even life-threatening emergencies. 

High blood sugar management is crucial for anyone living with diabetes, but it's equally important to recognize the signs of a diabetic emergency. 

In this blog post, we will discuss three key signs of a diabetic emergency and provide some tips for managing high blood sugar levels to avoid reaching emergency situations in the first place. 

Three Warning Signs of  Diabetic Emergency 

If you or a loved one has diabetes, please continue reading so you’re familiar with the signs of a diabetic emergency, and so you know what steps to take next. 

1. Extreme Hyperglycemia

High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, is a common issue for people with diabetes.

However, when these levels become extremely high and remain uncontrolled for an extended period, it can lead to a diabetic emergency known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Symptoms of extreme hyperglycemia include: 

• Frequent urination

• Excessive thirst

• Dry mouth

• Nausea or vomiting

• Shortness of breath

• Confusion 

• Difficulty concentrating

If you experience these symptoms and your blood sugar levels are consistently above 240 mg/dL despite your regular diabetes management routine, seek immediate medical attention.

2. Severe Hypoglycemia

On the other end of the spectrum is hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. 

While less common than hyperglycemia in people with type 2 diabetes, it's still a potential risk and can be just as dangerous if not addressed promptly.

Signs of severe hypoglycemia include:

• Sudden feelings of weakness

• Fatigue

• Shaking or trembling

• Sweating excessively without exertion

• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded

• Rapid heartbeat

In extreme cases, hypoglycemia can cause seizures or loss of consciousness.

If you have diabetes and experience these symptoms but cannot test your blood sugar level immediately (for example, if you're away from home), it's safer to treat the situation as a potential hypoglycemic episode. 

Consuming a fast-acting source of glucose can help raise your blood sugar levels quickly. Keeping sweet tarts or another small candy on hand is acceptable to get those levels back up quickly. A little fruit juice or a few bites of banana can also bring it back up quickly. 

Whatever you end up using, remember the “Rule of 15.” Eat 15 grams of carbs, wait 15 minutes, then check your blood sugar levels again. If they’re still below 70 mg/dl then repeat with another 15 grams and 15 minutes. 

3. Frequent Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is serious and occurs when your body begins to break down fat at an exceedingly fast rate.  The liver turns fat into a fuel called ketones, resulting in the blood becoming acidic.

Symptoms of DKA include: 

• Excessive thirst

• Frequent urination

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Weakness or fatigue

• Fruity-scented breath 

If you're experiencing these symptoms and have high blood sugar levels (usually over 250 mg/dL), it's essential to seek medical help immediately.

High Blood Sugar Management

Recognizing the signs of a diabetic emergency is only half the battle; effective high blood sugar management is crucial in preventing these emergencies from occurring in the first place. 

Here are some tips:

1. Regular Monitoring

Regularly check your blood sugar levels throughout the day to ensure they're within your target range set by your healthcare provider.

2. Healthy Eating

A balanced diet that includes regular eating times can help maintain steady blood sugar levels. You also want to be sure to include whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. 

3. Regular Exercise 

Physical activity helps lower your blood sugar levels, allowing your cells to use sugar for energy. 

4. Medication 

If lifestyle changes aren't enough, medication may be necessary to manage high blood sugar levels effectively.

Avoiding Diabetic Emergencies

Living with diabetes requires constant vigilance to prevent emergencies from arising due to fluctuating blood sugar levels. 

Recognizing the signs of extreme hyperglycemia, severe hypoglycemia, and frequent DKA can potentially save lives. 

However, prevention through effective high blood sugar management remains key in maintaining overall health and well-being for individuals living with diabetes.

The Blood Sugar Restart Method gives you the tools and resources to take immediate action when your blood sugars are not in range.

You will learn what to eat and when, discover specific vitamins that can help regulate blood sugar, support heart health, and find ways to use movement to improve insulin resistance. 

With the tools and knowledge gained during this intensive, you’ll no longer have to wait for a response on what to do. 

Remember that while this guide provides valuable information, it's not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Check with your health provider or a registered dietitian like myself for personalized advice regarding your health and diabetes management.