The Highs and Lows and Ups and Downs of Diabetes

Living with diabetes can feel like a roller coaster. 

Both emotionally and physically. 

First, let’s address the physical. 

What does it mean to experience the highs and lows of diabetes and how does it feel?

The Highs – Hyperglycemia 

Hyperglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels are too high and happens when the body has too little insulin or can’t produce enough insulin properly. “Hyperglycemia doesn’t cause symptoms until glucose values are significantly elevated, usually above 180 to 200 milligrams.”1

Symptoms to watch for when hyperglycemia occurs are:1

• Increased Thirst
• Blurred Vision
• Headache
• Frequent Urination
• Fatigue
• Fruity Smelling Breath 
• Nausea
• Shortness of Breath 
• Dry Mouth 
• Disorientation 
• Abdominal Pain 

If blood sugar is above 240 mg, a urine sample should be taken to check the presence of ketones. A buildup of ketones can be dangerous and lead to a condition called ketoacidosis which can result in coma and even death. Continued hyperglycemia can cause other serious health issues which is why it’s important to monitor and manage levels closely. 

The Lows – Hypoglycemia 

Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels become too low. Typically, anything below 70 mg/dl is considered low.

Symptoms to watch for when hypoglycemia occurs, especially when levels dip below 50 mg/dl are:2,3

• Nervousness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Trembling
• Sweating
• Hunger
• Weakness
• Heart Palpitations 
• Blurred vision 
• Irritability 

To help raise blood sugar, food or drinks high in carbs or glucose gel or tablets should be taken. These can help raise levels but blood glucose should be monitored closely so that they don’t rise too quickly. In extreme cases when a diabetes patient can’t take anything by mouth, an injection or glucagon inhaler may be needed. 

The Ups and Downs of Diabetes 

The physical demands of diabetes can be taxing but can also weigh heavily on the mind. Diabetes and depression often go hand in hand. With diabetes, we are often so laser focused on the body and monitoring blood glucose levels that we forget about mental health. But, diabetes impacts both. 

People living with diabetes are at an increased risk for depression, anxiety and mental health issues. “Depression is estimated to affect one in four people with diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Adolescents and children with type 1 diabetes have five times the rate of depression than adolescents who do not have Type 1.”4

This creates a vicious cycle because adults and children suffering from depression have “higher blood glucose levels and are at an increased risk for complications, like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and severe hypoglycemia.”4

Diabetes can cause prolonged stress which can cause fluctuations in blood sugar. Stress can also make following a diabetes maintenance routine more difficult. Being aware of stress levels at blood sugar checks can help to identify patterns and spot warning signs to help keep levels under control. 

It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of depression and when to spot them: 

• Loss of interest
• Changes in sleep patterns 
• Loss of appetite 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Decreased energy 
• Feelings of anxiousness, nervousness, anger, agitation and irritability 
• Sadness and feelings of hopelessness and inferiority 
• Thoughts of suicide 

Controlling Highs & Lows/Ups & Downs With a Continuous Glucose Monitor 

One way to help keep things in control is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM). A Continuous Glucose Monitor helps patients track daily patterns, ranges, targets and can even alert patients, healthcare providers and family members when levels are too high or too low. A CGM identifies trends in blood glucose levels in relation to diet and stress, so a patient knows where their levels are going and where they are headed. 

Knowing Where to Find Help

Creating a strong support system is the key. Patients with a strong support network tend to have better healthcare outcomes so it’s important to create a system that fosters body, mind and spirit. At Quest Health Solutions, we are here for you to provide educational resources, support, tools, supplies or whatever you need. 

Whether you are a patient, a healthcare provider, a diabetic educator or a loved one looking for more information, we are here to support you on this journey. To learn more, contact us at 1-800-993-9996,  email ben@questhealthsolutions.com or schedule an appointment today. In the meantime, please continue to check our blog for more information and let us know about any topics you would like to learn more about in the future. 

1. (2022) Mayo Clinic. Hyperglycemia in Diabetes. Available at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperglycemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20373631 accessed on 20 May 2022. 
2. (2015) WebMd. Blood Sugar Highs and Lows. Available at https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/blood-sugar-highs-lows accessed on 20 May 2022. 
3. (2022) MedicineNet. Low Blood Sugar: Symptoms, Dangers, & Treatment available at https://www.medicinenet.com/hypoglycemia/article.htm accessed on 21 May 2022. 
4. (2020) JDRF. Type 1 Diabetes and Depression. Available at https://www.jdrf.org/t1d-resources/living-with-t1d/mental-health/depression/ accessed on 21 May 2021.