{"id":4803,"date":"2024-11-20T20:31:30","date_gmt":"2024-12-10T04:43:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/?p=4803"},"modified":"2024-12-10T04:43:00","modified_gmt":"2024-12-10T04:43:00","slug":"hmn-6-proven-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar-fast-in-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/hmn-6-proven-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar-fast-in-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"HMN: 6 proven ways to lower blood sugar fast in 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>\n<br \/>Do you know:  6 proven ways to lower blood sugar fast in 2025<\/p>\n<div id=\"main-content\">\n<div id=\"post-intro\">\n<div id=\"takeaways\">\n<h2>Key takeaways<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Rapid-acting insulin is the quickest way to lower blood sugar in emergencies, with alternatives like sulfonylurea drugs for those not using insulin.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Non-emergency methods to lower blood sugar include checking medication adherence, exercising, staying hydrated, and eating foods with low glycemic index.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Apple cider vinegar and cinnamon may have a modest effect on lowering blood sugar but should not be relied upon solely for immediate reduction.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Untreated high blood sugar can lead to serious long-term complications and conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, emphasizing the importance of maintaining blood sugar levels within target ranges.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"table-of-contents\">\n<div class=\"anchorLinks\">\n<div class=\"mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"dropdownLists\">\n<div class=\"dropdownBtn\"><span class=\"listsIcon\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/singlecare\/images\/union.svg\" width=\"14\" height=\"20\"\/><\/span><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<label><\/label><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"downArrow\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/singlecare\/images\/dropDownArrow.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\"\/><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"What should my blood sugar levels be?\" width=\"1290\" height=\"726\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/bNFTH79eV8A?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">diabetes<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, diabetes mellitus, and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prediabetes<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> benefit from blood sugar management. Keeping blood glucose levels as well-controlled as possible helps avoid long-term <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">complications<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/diabetes.org\/healthy-living\/medication-treatments\/blood-glucose-testing-and-control\/hyperglycemia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hyperglycemia<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is the medical term for high blood sugar levels in the body. As part of your diabetes treatment plan, your healthcare professional will outline what to do when your blood sugar is too low or too high. This article will focus on how to lower your blood sugar quickly when it is too high\u2014for example, by exercising and drinking lots of water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"ways-to-lower-blood-sugar-quickly-at-home\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ways to lower blood sugar quickly at home<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although insulin is the fastest way to lower blood sugar levels, only some people use insulin. Below are some ways, besides insulin, to lower blood sugar within 24 hours. For individuals who use insulin, always follow the instructions given to you by your healthcare provider. Never share your insulin\u2014and on the other hand, do not use someone else\u2019s insulin to try to lower your blood sugar. Insulin dosing is carefully determined on an individual basis by your healthcare provider.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"1-double-check-your-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Double-check your medications<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In some cases, your blood sugar may be high because of a missed dose of diabetes medication or insulin. If your blood sugar is high and you realize you forgot to take your medication, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist about what to do. You may need to take an extra dose right away or wait till the next scheduled time, depending on the medication and the timing of the missed dose. If you have trouble remembering to take your medication, ask your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) for recommendations. For example, you may benefit from using a weekly pill organizer or a reminder app on your mobile phone. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some patients skip doses of medication or try to ration <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">insulin<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> because they have trouble affording their medication. With so many ways to save money, such as using manufacturer coupons or accessing a free <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> card<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, cost should never stop you from taking your medications as prescribed. If you have <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">difficulty affording<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> your medications, tell your healthcare provider so they can make some adjustments to your regimen that can be just as effective but more affordable.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><\/span><b> <\/b><b>How to afford insulin on Medicare<\/b><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"2-exercise\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Exercise\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exercise helps with insulin sensitivity, so your muscle cells can use insulin to take up glucose and use it for energy. Exercise is one of the best ways to help lower blood sugar in the short term, and regular exercise can help with blood sugar control in the long-term. Stephanie Redmond, Pharm.D., CDCES, BC-ADM, is the Founder and VP of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/drstephanies.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drstephanies.com<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr. Redmond explains that \u201cexercise is the best way to instantly lower blood sugar, combined with drinking water. Go for a walk around the block\u2014think of this as burning off extra sugar.\u201d <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exercise can lower blood sugar for up to 24 hours after your workout\u2014or even longer, according to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/diabetes.org\/healthy-living\/fitness\/getting-started-safely\/blood-glucose-and-exercise\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American Diabetes Association<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The extent of the effect varies based on the type, intensity, and duration of exercise.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In general, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/physical-activity-basics\/guidelines\/adults.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">recommended weekly amount of exercise<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for adults is at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of muscle-strengthening activity. You can break this down into smaller pieces, for example, 30 minutes of walking five days per week, adding strength training on two days. Check with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be mindful of blood sugar levels before exercising. If you are exercising to bring down high blood sugar, make sure your blood sugar level is in a safe range for physical activity. At a high level, usually around 240 mg\/dL (milligrams per deciliter) or so, you will need to test for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ketones<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If ketones are present, you should not exercise. Instead, follow your healthcare provider\u2019s instructions and treatment plan.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b> <\/b><b>What\u2019s the best exercise for diabetes?<\/b><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"3-drink-water\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Drink water<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your blood sugar is high, you could become dehydrated. With high blood sugar, you need to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/diabetes.org\/tools-support\/disaster-relief\/caring-people-diabetes-emergency\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">take in more fluids<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> than usual to help flush excess sugar out of the body through the urine. Dr. Redmond notes, \u201cI describe this to my patients that it can dilute the sugar in the blood\u2014and also flushes out extra sugar, so it can have a quick-acting effect.\u201d Other sugar-free drinks can be used if water is not available. Avoid sugary drinks like fruit juices and regular sodas, because they will raise blood sugar even more.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"4-eat-foods-low-on-the-glycemic-index\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Eat foods low on the glycemic index<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are no magic foods that lower blood sugar instantly, says Dr. Redmond. However, when you are trying to quickly lower your blood sugar, avoid foods that cause blood sugar spikes such as white bread, rice, pasta, and sweets. These types of foods can further raise your blood sugar.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead, if you are hungry, opt for snacks or meals like high-fiber, non-starchy vegetables (such as leafy greens) or salads, nuts, legumes, avocados, lean proteins, and healthy oils like olive oil. These foods, eaten in moderation, will generally not cause a spike. They will not bring down your blood sugar quickly but will prevent further spikes while you work to bring your blood sugar down. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try to limit your carb intake to whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. You can always consult a registered dietitian to help with an eating plan that is best for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b> <\/b><b>What\u2019s the best diabetes diet plan?<\/b><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"5-apple-cider-vinegar\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Apple cider vinegar<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apple cider vinegar<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (ACV) is not a proven treatment for lowering blood sugar, but some scientific studies say that it may help. One <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/diabetesjournals.org\/care\/article\/30\/11\/2814\/4824\/Vinegar-Ingestion-at-Bedtime-Moderates-Waking\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">very small study<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> looked at people who had two tablespoons of ACV at bedtime, along with an ounce of cheese, compared to people who had two tablespoons of water and an ounce of cheese at bedtime. In the morning, those who took ACV had a 4% decrease in fasting blood sugar, compared to a 2% decrease in those who drank water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28292654\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other studies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> have also found vinegar to be helpful in lowering blood sugar levels. People who want to try this should <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdanderson.org\/cancerwise\/what-are-the-health-benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar.h00-159696756.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dilute the vinegar<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> before drinking it, for example, diluting one tablespoon of vinegar in an 8-ounce glass of water, tea, or another drink. Consuming ACV or other types of vinegar should not be relied on alone to lower blood sugar quickly, but it may have a small impact, so if you can tolerate the taste, it\u2019s worth a try\u2014along with other measures.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"6-cinnamon-or-dietary-supplements\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Cinnamon or dietary supplements<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr. Redmond recommends cinnamon and Banaba. \u201cThey exert an insulin-like effect, and they do so in different ways.\u201d Cassia cinnamon, she explains, has been shown in animal research to stimulate insulin release and lower blood sugar levels. These studies suggest cassia cinnamon has a more significant insulin-stimulating effect than Ceylon cinnamon.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regarding dietary cinnamon, Dr. Redmond explains that dietary supplements generally provide a more regulated and defined amount, so \u201cI don\u2019t recommend people dumping a ton of cinnamon on their food.\u201d However, for those who prefer to use cinnamon in the diet, she recommends adding up to one teaspoonful of cinnamon in oatmeal or yogurt for flavor and to boost antioxidants.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cAnimal research shows that Banaba may activate insulin receptors, mimicking insulin activity. Human studies may show benefits to blood sugar, but the mechanism is not as well understood as in animal models,\u201d Dr. Redmond explains.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr. Redmond also notes that chromium and berberine may help lower blood sugar, but it may take longer to do so.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before taking any <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dietary supplement<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, consult your healthcare provider to make sure it is safe for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b> <\/b><b>Health benefits of cinnamon<\/b><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"a-note-about-alcohol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A note about alcohol<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alcohol can <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cause low blood sugar<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, especially when combined with insulin or certain diabetes medications (most notably, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">glipizide<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">glimepiride<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or glyburide). Although this may seem like a no-brainer, then, when trying to deliberately lower a high blood glucose level, this is not the case. Safe alcohol consumption will look different for everyone, so check with your healthcare provider about a safe amount of alcohol to consume. But do not use alcohol to try to lower blood sugar. Dr. Redmond says, \u201cI would definitely not advise ANY patients to drink alcohol for the purpose of lowering blood sugar.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/diabetes.org\/health-wellness\/alcohol-and-diabetes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American Diabetes Association warns<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, \u201c<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because many of the symptoms of hypoglycemia\u2014such as slurred speech, drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty walking\u2014are also symptoms of being drunk, it can be difficult to tell the two apart. And if you often have hypoglycemia unawareness, a condition in which you don\u2019t recognize you\u2019re going low, drinking becomes especially dicey. Timing may also be an issue, as hypoglycemia can strike hours after your last drink, especially if you\u2019ve been exercising.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b> <\/b><b>Can I drink alcohol while taking metformin?<\/b><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"lowering-fasting-blood-sugar\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lowering fasting blood sugar<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many people ask how to lower fasting blood sugar. Fasting blood sugar is measured after fasting (not eating or drinking anything except water) for at least eight to 12 hours. There are several lifestyle changes you can make that will help you lower fasting blood sugar, such as making dietary changes, increasing exercise, focusing on weight loss if needed, drinking plenty of water, and limiting stress when possible.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr. Redmond notes that \u201cmeditation and mindfulness to start your day can have a relaxing effect and lower blood sugars by reducing stress.\u201d Also, bad news for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">coffee lovers<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2014Dr. Redmond suggests limiting caffeine: \u201cSome people experience a spike in blood sugars from caffeine, so you may be adding to your high blood sugars inadvertently.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can read more about measures to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lower fasting blood sugar here<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-is-a-dangerous-level-of-blood-sugar\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is a dangerous level of blood sugar?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following chart provides general guidelines for adults with diabetes. Consult your healthcare professional for your personalized blood glucose level target ranges, which can vary. Blood sugar in adults is generally considered high if it is above 130 mg\/dL before a meal or above 180 mg\/dL within one or two hours after a meal.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not every scenario may require intervention.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><span class=\"title\">What do my blood sugar levels mean?<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td rowspan=\"5\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adults with diabetes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dangerously high<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A dangerously high number will vary, depending on your target ranges and treatment plan. Your healthcare professional will give you more information.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check ketones if required\/Seek emergency medical care as outlined in the\u00a0 treatment plan<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&gt;130 mg\/dL, or possibly higher, depending on your target range\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Follow the treatment plan provided by your healthcare professional<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Normal<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">70-130 mg\/dL, depending on your target range<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Follow the treatment plan provided by your healthcare professional<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&lt;70 mg\/dL, depending on your target range<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Follow the treatment plan provided by your healthcare professional<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dangerously low<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&lt;54 mg\/dL but may vary depending on your range<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emergency intervention with glucagon and emergency medical care may be required depending on the patient\u2019s status. Patients who are able to eat should consume fast-acting carbohydrates as detailed in their treatment plan.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td rowspan=\"3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adults without diabetes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A fasting blood sugar of 100-125 mg\/dL is considered high, and in the prediabetes range<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A fasting blood sugar of 126 mg\/dL or more is considered high and in the diabetes range<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consult your healthcare provider. Adults with prediabetes may be able to lower blood sugar with lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercise (and possibly medication). Adults with diabetes generally will need medication, along with diet and exercise, and some patients will need insulin.\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Normal<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&lt;100 mg\/dL fasting<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&lt;140 mg\/dL after eating<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consult your healthcare provider-generally, no action is required.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">70-100 mg\/dL\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consult your healthcare provider<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><b> <\/b><b>See more blood sugar charts here<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your healthcare professional will provide you with a diabetes treatment plan. You will know what medication(s) and insulin to take, how often to check your blood sugar, what to do if your blood sugar is too low or too high, and more. Your healthcare provider will tell you at what number your blood sugar level is considered dangerous.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\t\t<\/p>\n<div class=\"singlecare-dynamic-newsletter-wrapper sin-newsletter-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"heading\">Sign up for our newsletter<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<p>\t<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best option and fastest way to lower blood sugar within minutes is to use your rapid-acting insulin if you have an insulin prescription. Fast-acting insulin, such as <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Humalog<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Novolog<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, starts to work about 15 minutes after it is injected. This will all be detailed in your treatment plan. However, not everyone with Type 2 diabetes will use insulin. For people who do not use insulin, see the tips below titled \u201cWays to lower blood sugar quickly at home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr. Redmond notes that for people with Type 2 diabetes who do not use insulin, another option is a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sulfonylurea<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> drug. Drugs in this class of medications include <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Amaryl<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (glimepiride)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">glipizide<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">glyburide<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. She notes that \u201cthese medications are falling out of favor in our diabetes care guidelines, but nonetheless, they are fast-acting and trigger the pancreas to release a surge of insulin, causing an immediate or fast reduction in blood sugar levels. There are still many patients who take these.\u201d Since sulfonylureas are available by prescription only, you can ask your healthcare provider if one of them would be an appropriate medication for you if you do not use insulin.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seeing many charts, numbers, and actions required can be overwhelming. However, when you receive your treatment plan and review it with your healthcare provider, it will be easier to understand exactly what to do in every situation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can ask your endocrinologist if they can recommend (or work with) a CDCES or find a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbdce.org\/locate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CDCES<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or diabetes education program <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.diabeteseducator.org\/living-with-diabetes\/find-an-education-program\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">in your area<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. A diabetes diagnosis can be overwhelming\u2014so having these experts as part of your diabetes care team can be very valuable.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"untreated-hyperglycemia\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Untreated hyperglycemia<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symptoms of high blood sugar<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may include increased thirst, urination, and hunger, as well as headaches and blurred vision. The blood sugar number at which symptoms occur may vary by individual. When blood sugar is too high, it is important to bring it back to your target range.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having dangerously <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high blood sugar<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can lead to a life-threatening medical condition called <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/diabetes.org\/diabetes\/dka-ketoacidosis-ketones\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">diabetic ketoacidosis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or DKA. DKA can cause coma or death and is an emergency situation. DKA is more common in people with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Type 1 diabetes<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but anyone with diabetes should recognize the symptoms and know at what blood sugar level they should test for ketones (in the urine or blood). According to the American Diabetes Association, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">DKA<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> begins with the symptoms of high blood sugar mentioned above. Then, it can progress to symptoms of fatigue, vomiting, stomach pain, fruity-smelling breath, trouble breathing, and confusion. People who experience symptoms of DKA should call 911 and have an ambulance take them to the nearest hospital for emergency medical treatment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"long-term-complications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term complications<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having high blood glucose frequently over time can lead to many serious health problems and complications. This is why staying in your target range as much as possible is important for diabetes management. Examples of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/patientinstructions\/000327.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">long-term complications of diabetes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Eye problems<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, including sensitivity to light, vision problems, and blindness.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Foot problems<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, including infections and sores. In some severe cases, amputation may be required.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Problems with the heart and blood vessels<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as heart attack, stroke, heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nerve damage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as numbness, tingling, and pain. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Men<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may have <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">erectile dysfunction<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stomach problems<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, including digestive issues, constipation, or diarrhea.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Kidney problems<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which could lead to the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>A weakened immune system<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, increasing the chance of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">infection<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and complications of infections.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"monitoring\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monitoring<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may want to consult your healthcare professional about wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). CGMs are convenient, portable, and are becoming <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">more affordable<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. They can give you an insight into what your blood sugar is doing 24 hours a day\u2014you can see how your blood sugar responds to foods, exercise, and other factors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"when-to-go-to-the-er-vs-calling-a-healthcare-provider\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When to go to the ER vs. calling a healthcare provider<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always make sure you understand your treatment plan, including what to do when your blood sugar is high or dangerously high. These numbers vary by individual, so your healthcare professional will explain your target ranges and what to do when you are above this range. If you have any questions or need help figuring out what to do, contact your healthcare provider.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When blood sugar is high, people who are prescribed insulin will use their insulin to help bring down high blood sugar. Other measures, such as exercise and drinking plenty of water, can help, too\u2014in people who use insulin and those who do not.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, for dangerously high blood sugar, ketones in the urine, or other symptoms of very high blood sugar, call 911 and have an ambulance take you to the emergency room. If you are unsure if you require emergency help, it\u2019s better to err on the safe side and go to the emergency room. According to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.emergencyphysicians.org\/article\/know-when-to-go\/diabetes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American College of Emergency Physicians<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, \u201c<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anyone who thinks they\u2019re having a medical emergency should not hesitate to seek care. 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Non-emergency methods to lower blood sugar include checking medication adherence, exercising, staying hydrated, and eating foods with low [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4803","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-health-news"],"blocksy_meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4803","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4803"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4803\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6058,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4803\/revisions\/6058"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4803"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4803"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthmedicinet.com\/review\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4803"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}