Fact 6: Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia – Recognizing the Extremes
Understanding the extremes of blood sugar levels—hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia—is crucial in the tightrope walk of managing gestational diabetes. Hypoglycemia, characterized by blood sugar levels that are too low, can manifest as dizziness, sweating, weakness, and confusion. It’s a condition that demands immediate attention and a quick source of glucose to restore balance.
Hyperglycemia, on the other hand, is the result of blood sugar levels climbing too high. It can lead to symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. Prolonged hyperglycemia poses risks not only to the mother, including the development of infections, but also to the baby, increasing the likelihood of high birth weight and subsequent birth complications.
To avoid these extremes, vigilance is key. Recognizing the early signs and knowing how to respond can prevent the situation from escalating. Regular blood sugar monitoring, as well as understanding the impact of food and activity on glucose levels, is the first line of defense.
For those with gestational diabetes, it’s important to have a plan in place for both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. This plan, often developed with a healthcare provider, includes knowing when to consume a fast-acting carbohydrate or administer insulin, should the need arise.
Being equipped to handle these extremes instills a sense of preparedness. It’s about not only recognizing and responding to the immediate symptoms but also understanding and managing the potential long-term implications for both mother and baby’s health. (6)
