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Relatively stable blood sugar levels are a key factor in our health. Both too high and too low blood sugar levels can lead to various health problems. It is worth understanding what the norms are and what tests are available to monitor blood sugar levels and what are the consequences of its deviation from normal values.
What does an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) look like?
One of the most important tests for assessing blood sugar levels is the oral glucose tolerance test, abbreviated as OGTT. This is a fasting test in which the patient drinks a drink containing glucose and then regular blood samples are taken at specific intervals to check how the body processes the sugar. This test helps diagnose diabetes and prediabetic conditions.
Does high blood sugar always mean you have diabetes?
No, high blood sugar is not always a clear symptom of diabetes. High sugar levels may be the result of various factors, such as stress, diet, infectious diseases or taking certain medications. It is worth remembering that the diagnosis of diabetes should be made by a doctor based on a comprehensive assessment of test results, and not only on the basis of a single blood sugar measurement result.
Blood sugar levels too low
Too low blood sugar levels, called hypoglycemia, can also be a serious health problem. Hypoglycemia may lead to fainting, impaired consciousness, and even life-threatening conditions. Therefore, it is important to monitor blood sugar levels, especially in people who take sugar-lowering medications such as insulin.
Causes of hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia can have many causes, including excessive doses of blood sugar-lowering medications, delayed meals, intense exercise, and certain diseases such as liver or kidney disease. People with diabetes should be especially careful to avoid sudden drops in blood sugar levels.
What symptoms can hypoglycemia cause?
Symptoms of hypoglycemia may vary, but the most common include feeling hungry, trembling hands, sweating, dizziness, headache, anxiety, visual disturbances, and even loss of consciousness. If you experience these symptoms, it is a good idea to check your blood sugar levels and consult your doctor if necessary.
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Recommended articles
If you are interested in diabetes-related topics, we recommend reading our other articles on this topic. You will learn more about the types of diabetes, treatments and how to lead a healthy lifestyle with diabetes.
To sum up, proper blood sugar levels are important for our health, and monitoring them and proper medical care can prevent many problems. If you have concerns about your blood sugar levels, consult your doctor to help you understand your test results and take appropriate action.