Hyperglycemia vs Hypoglycemia
Quick comparison of key signs, causes, and treatment of high vs low blood sugar.
HYPERGLYCEMIA HIGH BLOOD SUGAR
Ranges:
Mild: 180–250 mg/dL
Moderate: 250–350 mg/dL
Severe: >350 mg/dL
DKA risk: >250 mg/dL with ketones
HHS risk: >600 mg/dL
🔍 Key Signs
“Hot & Dry = Sugar High”
  • Hot, dry skin
  • Very thirsty (polydipsia)
  • Frequent urination (polyuria)
  • Very hungry (polyphagia)
  • Dry mouth / dehydration
  • Fruity breath
  • Deep, rapid breathing (Kussmaul)
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow wound healing
  • Numbness / tingling
⚠️ Causes
  • Infection (sepsis)
  • Stress
  • Steroids
  • Missed insulin / medications
  • Poor diabetic diet
💉 Treatment
  • Give insulin as ordered
  • Check urine ketones
  • Hydrate well
VS
HYPOGLYCEMIA LOW BLOOD SUGAR
Ranges:
Mild: 60–70 mg/dL
Moderate: 40–59 mg/dL
Severe: <40 mg/dL (danger → coma/seizure)
🔍 Key Signs
“Cold & Clammy = Need Some Candy”
  • Cool, sweaty skin
  • Shaking, trembling
  • Palpitations
  • Headache
  • Confusion
  • Fatigue / weakness
  • Irritability
  • Can’t wake up → coma
⚠️ Causes
  • Too much exercise
  • Too much insulin
  • Alcohol
  • Insulin peak times
💊 Treatment
If conscious → “15 – 15 – 15 rule” 💡
  • Give 15 g fast carbs (juice, soda, glucose tablets, low-fat milk)
  • Wait 15 minutes
  • Recheck sugar → repeat if still low
❌ Avoid peanut butter / high-fat milk (slow absorption)
If unconscious
  • Do NOT give anything orally
  • Give IV 50% dextrose (D50) immediately

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