What is hyper and hypoglycemia?
Hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia are terms frequently heard when referring to blood sugars. • Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar (less than or equal to 70 mg/dl). Low and fluctuating blood sugar levels are damaging to blood vessels and vision. Although rare, some people may experience hypoglycemia without having diabetes. • Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar great (greater than or equal to 120 mg/dl). Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics experience hyperglycemia. High blood sugar levels are dangerous as they can lead to a diabetic coma. Severe fluctuations between high and low blood sugar levels are dangerous for people with diabetes because they can lead to kidney damage, vascular diseases, and vision impairment or loss. How do you know if you may have diabetes? About 35% of people with diabetes go undiagnosed for several years before realizing they have diabetes. If you want to estimate your level of risk for diabetes take the Risk Test at 1-800-diabetes or visit the American Dia
