Blood Sugar Changes During Illness

When experiencing an illness, blood sugar levels may fluctuate. This is a common occurrence for individuals with diabetes, and it can sometimes be unclear why these changes happen. Many factors can influence these fluctuations, making it important to understand the context. This article provides information about how illness can affect blood sugar, the reasons behind these changes, and what to consider.

Key takeaways

Illness often leads to blood sugar fluctuations.
The body’s stress response plays a key role.
Hormonal changes can impact blood sugar levels.
Medications taken for illness can affect blood sugar.
Dehydration can influence blood sugar readings.
Monitoring blood sugar more frequently is often needed during illness.
Communication with a healthcare provider is important.
Understanding the context of blood sugar changes is key.

Why this happens

During an illness, the body experiences stress. This stress response triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can raise blood sugar levels by prompting the liver to release stored glucose. Additionally, the body may become less sensitive to insulin, further contributing to higher blood sugar readings. For example, when experiencing a cold, the body’s focus shifts to fighting the infection, which can influence how the body uses insulin.

Furthermore, medications used to treat illness can also affect blood sugar. Some medications, commonly prescribed for inflammation, may increase blood sugar levels. Other medications might also have an impact. Dehydration, which is common during illness due to fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, can also lead to higher blood sugar readings because it concentrates the glucose in the blood. The interplay of these factors means that blood sugar changes during illness are often complex and vary from person to person.

Real-world scenarios

A common situation is when someone with diabetes experiences a cold or the flu. They might observe higher-than-usual blood sugar readings, even if they are following their usual meal plan and medication schedule. Another scenario involves an individual with diabetes who develops a urinary tract infection. The body’s response to the infection can lead to elevated blood sugar levels. In some cases, individuals might experience both high and low blood sugar levels, depending on the type of illness, the medications they are taking, and their overall health. These scenarios highlight the importance of frequent blood sugar monitoring and adjusting diabetes management strategies as needed during an illness.

Risk factors and what may help

Symptoms and early signs

The symptoms of high blood sugar during illness can include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue. Some individuals might also experience nausea or vomiting. Early signs can be subtle, such as a slight increase in blood sugar readings or feeling more tired than usual. It’s important to monitor for these signs, especially when you are sick. If blood sugar levels become very high, this can lead to more serious complications. Recognizing these symptoms and early signs is crucial for managing blood sugar effectively during an illness.

How it’s checked

Blood sugar is typically checked using a blood glucose meter or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). A blood glucose meter requires a small blood sample, usually from a fingertip. A CGM continuously monitors blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. During an illness, more frequent blood sugar checks are often recommended to track any fluctuations. The frequency of testing depends on the severity of the illness and individual needs, as determined by a healthcare provider. Keeping a log of blood sugar readings, along with any symptoms and medications, can help in understanding patterns and making informed decisions about diabetes management.

What this means in everyday life

Individuals often notice that their usual blood sugar patterns change when they are sick. This can influence how they interpret their blood sugar readings. For example, a person might see higher readings than usual and wonder if their diabetes management is working. It’s important to remember that these changes are often temporary and related to the illness itself. Understanding that illness can affect blood sugar helps individuals make informed decisions about their health. It’s also important to recognize that the interpretation of blood sugar readings during illness requires context and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Red flags: when to seek medical advice

It’s important to seek medical advice if you experience severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion. Other red flags include persistent high blood sugar levels, or the presence of ketones in the urine. If you are unable to keep down fluids or are experiencing signs of dehydration, it’s also important to seek medical attention. Any time you are concerned about your health or your blood sugar levels, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider. Early intervention can prevent complications and help you manage your diabetes effectively during an illness.

Why people get confused

People often get confused because blood sugar changes during illness can be unpredictable. The body’s response to illness is complex, and many factors can influence blood sugar levels. The use of different terms online versus in clinical settings can also add to the confusion. For instance, what is casually called “high blood sugar” online may have a different meaning in a medical context. Additionally, the impact of medications and the varying severity of illnesses can make it difficult to predict how blood sugar will behave. This unpredictability can lead to uncertainty and concern, highlighting the importance of clear communication with healthcare providers.

Here’s the part most people miss:

Many people focus on the numbers from their meter or CGM, but they may not fully consider the context of their illness. They might see a higher reading and immediately assume they need to change their insulin dose or diet. However, the illness itself is often the primary driver of the change. It’s like traffic congestion: if you see a slowdown on the highway, it could be due to an accident, construction, or simply heavy traffic. Similarly, blood sugar fluctuations during illness have various causes. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial before making any adjustments to your diabetes management plan. This is similar to a student’s backpack: if the backpack is heavy, it may be due to extra books, not necessarily a change in the student’s routine.

Questions to ask your healthcare provider

What is the best way to monitor my blood sugar when I am sick?
How should I adjust my insulin or medication when I am ill?
What symptoms should I watch out for?
When should I seek medical attention?
Are there any specific medications I should avoid?

Frequently asked questions

How is illness commonly discussed in relation to blood sugar changes?
What is known about the impact of different types of infections on blood sugar levels?
Why do people associate certain medications with blood sugar fluctuations?
What does research suggest about the role of stress in blood sugar regulation during illness?
How is dehydration discussed in the context of blood sugar and illness?

Label scanner: what to check in 10 seconds

Serving size: Note the amount the nutrition information is based on.
Total carbohydrates: Check the total amount of carbs per serving.
Added sugars: Look for the amount of added sugars, such as syrups.
Ingredients: Be aware of ingredients like maltodextrin and dextrose.
Fiber: Fiber can affect how quickly carbs are absorbed.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
American Diabetes Association (ADA)
Mayo Clinic
Cleveland Clinic
World Health Organization (WHO)

The information provided in this article is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. This article does not endorse any specific product, including Lifebetic.