Julia
Dialysis Nurse
Rema
Designer
Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia In diabetes, the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high (hyperglycemia) because the body produces too little or no insulin (a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels) or because body cells do not respond adequately to the hormone.
The body takes in glucose from food, and body cells use it to produce energy. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and maintains a steady blood glucose level by helping body cells to absorb glucose. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
The underlying cause is unknown, but it may be triggered by a viral infection, and some people may also have a genetic predisposition to developing it. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas produces too little insulin or the body cells are resistant to it. This type is strongly linked to obesity; genetics may also play a role. Another type of diabetes sometimes develops in pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
Known as gestational diabetes, it usually disappears after delivery but may recur in future pregnancies; it also increases the risk of developing diabetes later in life. Diabetes can be controlled with medication, dietary measures, or insulin injections.
Untreated or poorly controlled diabetes may lead to various complications, including a potentially fatal metabolic disturbance called ketoacidosis, or disorders of the nerves, vision, heart and circulation, and kidneys.
Another potential problem in people with diabetes is hypoglycemia, an extremely low level of blood glucose that may lead to unconsciousness. It mainly affects people who take too much insulin, miss a meal, or exercise too hard. It can usually be corrected by eating something sugary. In severe cases, medication may be given.