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Nursing Knowledge
Hypoglycemia is a condition when blood sugar/glucose levels are too low: blood sugar < 70 mg/dL (3.89 mmol/L).
Reactive hypoglycemia, also known as postprandial hypoglycemia, is a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels that occur within a few hours after eating a meal.
Hypoglycemia can be caused by:
Hypoglycemia presents with these symptoms:
Treatment of hypoglycemia includes:
Hyperglycemia is a condition when blood sugar/glucose levels are too high:
Hyperglycemia can be caused by:
Typical symptoms of hyperglycemia are:
Measures taken against hyperglycemia include:
Euglycemia is the state where blood sugar levels are in a normal range: fasting 70–100 mg/dL (3.89–5.55 mmol/L)
Table: Summary of hyper- vs hypoglycemia
| Hyperglycemia | Hypoglycemia | |
| Causes |
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| Symptoms |
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| Treatment |
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In a client who is prone to fluctuating blood glucose levels, it is important to monitor the reading. The frequency can vary depending on the client’s specific needs, the type and severity of diabetes, and the current treatment plan. Some clients may need to check their blood glucose levels multiple times a day, including before meals, before bedtime, and possibly before and after exercise.
Chronic hyperglycemia can damage blood vessels and nerves over time, leading to long-term complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision problems, neuropathies, poor wound healing and an increased risk of infections.
Repeated severe hypoglycemia can lead to cognitive impairment and neurologic damage, cardiovascular disease (arrhythmias), and in extreme cases, can be life-threatening.
Severe hyperglycemia needs urgent medical attention. Insulin or other treatments may be needed, along with close monitoring.
For clients with severe hypoglycemia, give a source of fast-acting sugar. If unconscious or unable to swallow, administer glucagon if available, and seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
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