1999 Archive

2000 Archive

January

February

March

April

Archive By Topic

Health and Nutrition

Human Sciences

Environment

Animal Science

Agronomy

Horticulture

4-H

Consumer Affairs

Back

BLOOD SUGAR CONTROL IS KEY TO MANAGING DIABETES

AUBURN, APRIL 14, 2000---The key to managing diabetes is effective blood sugar control. Unfortunately, failure
to maintain healthy sugar levels can result in many difficult side effects. One of the most common problems is
hypoglycemia, which occurs when blood sugar levels fall too low to provide the fuel the body needs. Hypoglycemia,
or glucose shock, most often strikes diabetics who are taking insulin to control their disease. However, it can strike
people who don't have diabetes.

People having a hypoglycemic reaction can suffer from headaches, nervousness, irritability, weakness or
palpitations, and in some extreme cases, even seizures or coma. Other common symptoms include paleness,
drowsiness, trembling and a cold, clammy feeling.

Most diabetics can help ward off potential hypoglycemic attacks by eating regular meals and paying close attention
to their blood sugar levels, says Dr. Evelyn Crayton, an Extension foods and nutrition specialist and registered
dietitian. When taken in excess, alcohol, exercise and even medication can cause hypoglycemia, often called an
insulin reaction by diabetics.

Type 1 diabetics are most vulnerable to severe insulin reactions and may lose consciousness. Some patients
develop a conditions known as "hypoglycemia unawareness." Patients with this condition have difficulty
recognizing the symptoms of low blood sugar.

In most cases, low blood sugar can be controlled by eating an extra snack that raises your blood sugar levels.
Nondiet soda, candy, juice or anything with sugar in it usually provides a quick fix. If it takes more than a few
minutes for a diabetic to recover, they may require emergency medical help.

Medical experts recommend diabetics keep glucagon emergency kits on hand to manage episodes of hypoglycemia
when they are unable to treat themselves. Kits should be stored at home, at work and in the car. Family members,
friends and co-workers should be instructed in how to give an emergency injection in the event a diabetic is unable
to do so.

In some cases, diabetics who experience low blood sugar have violent outbursts. Using an emergency kit may help
end a hypoglycemia-induced violent outburst.

It's important for diabetics to wear a medical alert bracelet or pendant at all times because it will alert others to
your condition. 

SOURCE: DR. EVELYN CRAYTON, Extension Foods and Nutrition Specialist and Registered Dietitian, Alabama Cooperative Extension System (334) 844-2224