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Low blood glucose (sugar), or hypoglycemia means your blood glucose is below 70 mg/dL. Risk of low blood sugar is higher in people with diabetes who take insulin or certain pills that may cause low blood glucose if your dose is too high, or you eat less or are more active than usual. Hypoglycemia is more severe when your blood glucose is below 54 mg/dL and can lead to passing out or having a seizure. If you are not able to help yourself, ask for help or call 911 right away. Talk to your healthcare team to get tips on how to know if you have hypoglycemia and ways, you can treat it. Check out these handouts and videos to learn more about it.

There are several misconceptions surrounding diabetes. Educating individuals about the accurate causes, symptoms, and management of diabetes can help dispel these myths and promote better understanding and support for those living with the condition.

Hyperglycemia or high blood glucose (sugar) means your blood glucose is over 180 mg/dl (10.0 mmol/L). Risk of high blood glucose goes up if you take too little diabetes medicine, eat more than usual or are less active. If your body does not make enough insulin or is not able to use the insulin you make well, too much glucose stays in your blood. Talk to your healthcare team about how you can lower and prevent high glucose.

Being pregnant along with living with diabetes can be hard to care for at the same time. To keep both the mother and baby healthy, close follow up is needed. It is key for pregnant women with diabetes to get special care and follow their care plan to get to and keep their blood glucose (sugar) at goal to prevent diabetes problems. You should talk to your healthcare team often to review your glucose (sugar) levels, discuss any worries, change your care plan if needed, and make sure both you and your baby are doing well.

Diabetes can have an impact on your oral health, and it's important to pay attention to dental care if you have diabetes. Communicate any oral health concerns or symptoms to your dentist or healthcare team. By maintaining good oral hygiene, controlling blood sugar levels, and seeking regular dental care, you can help reduce the risk of oral health complications associated with diabetes.

Managing diabetes is crucial for individuals of all ages, and it becomes even more important as one gets older, especially after the age of 65. As people age, their bodies may become less efficient at regulating blood sugar levels, and they may be more prone to developing complications related to diabetes.

Diabetes can affect your vision and eye health, so it's important to prioritize regular vision care if you have diabetes. Regular eye exams and proactive management of diabetes and related health conditions are essential for preserving your vision and preventing or managing diabetic eye complications. Be sure to consult with your healthcare team and eye care professional for personalized guidance and recommendations based on your specific needs.

Monitoring your blood glucose levels is a key aspect of managing diabetes effectively. Regular monitoring allows you to understand how different factors, such as food, physical activity, medications, and stress, affect your blood sugar levels.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are the two most common types of diabetes. While people with both T1D and T2D need to get to and keep their blood glucose (sugar) at goal, they differ in the causes and their treatment plan.

Diabetes pills and insulin are two common treatment options for managing diabetes. Diabetes pills, also known as oral medications, help lower blood glucose levels by various mechanisms such as stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin, improving insulin sensitivity, or reducing glucose production in the liver. Insulin, on the other hand, is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels by allowing cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream. It is commonly used in individuals with type 1 diabetes and may also be prescribed for those with type 2 diabetes when oral medications are not sufficient to control blood glucose levels. Both treatments play crucial roles in diabetes management, and the choice between them depends on factors such as individual health status, lifestyle, and treatment goals. Regular monitoring and adherence to prescribed treatment regimens are essential for effective diabetes management.

Diabetes complications can affect various organs and systems in the body, including the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and blood vessels. Common complications include cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, diabetic retinopathy, neuropathy, foot ulcers, and increased risk of infections. Proper management of diabetes through medication, lifestyle changes, and regular medical check-ups is crucial in preventing or delaying these complications.

Successfully managing diabetes during Thanksgiving involves planning balanced meals, watching portion sizes, and monitoring blood sugar levels to savor the holiday's flavors without compromising health.

Physical activity is highly beneficial for individuals with diabetes. It's important to note that before starting any exercise program, it's recommended to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice, consider any potential complications or limitations, and help you establish an exercise plan that is safe and suitable for your condition.

Diabetes and mental health are interconnected in various ways. The challenges of living with diabetes can have an impact on mental well-being, and mental health issues can also affect diabetes management. It's essential for individuals with diabetes to prioritize their mental well-being alongside physical health and seek appropriate support when needed.

When it comes to managing diabetes during sick days, there are some general guidelines that can help individuals with diabetes maintain their blood sugar levels and recover more comfortably. However, it's important to note that these guidelines may vary based on individual circumstances, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Traveling with diabetes requires careful planning and preparation to ensure that you can manage your condition effectively while away from home. Before your trip, schedule a visit with your healthcare provider to discuss your travel plans. They can provide recommendations based on your specific needs and help you adjust your medication regimen if necessary

Insulin and other injectables are medications that are administered through injections into the body. Insulin is typically injected subcutaneously, which means it is injected into the fatty tissue just below the skin. There are various types of insulin, including rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting. The choice of insulin type and dosing regimen depends on individual needs and the recommendation of a healthcare professional.

When stocking your pantry while living with diabetes, it's important to prioritize nutritious foods that support blood sugar management. Be sure to also include an insulin checklist and medical contacts in case of an emergency.

When dining out, the variety of menu options and unknown nutritional information can make it challenging to estimate insulin requirements accurately. However, with some preparation and awareness, you can still enjoy meals at restaurants while maintaining good blood sugar control. This section explores strategies and tips to navigate dining out successfully when taking insulin.

Knowing certain labs and numbers is important when you have diabetes because they provide critical information about your overall health and the management of your condition.

Diabetes and nutrition are closely intertwined, as the food you eat has a significant impact on your blood sugar levels, overall health, and management of diabetes. The primary goal of diabetes management is to control blood sugar levels. Nutrition plays a crucial role in achieving this goal. By making mindful choices about the types and amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats consumed, you can help regulate your blood sugar levels and prevent spikes or drops.