Is also known as (low blood glucose). When less glucose is available to cells, the body is unable to produce sufficient energy to fuel the muscles and bodily processes. This results in feelings of tiredness or fatigue. The term hypoglycemia literally means "under sweet blood." Hypoglycemia, sometimes called an insulin reaction, can happen even during those times when you're doing all you can to control your diabetes. So, although many times you can't prevent it from happening, low blood glucose can be treated before it gets worse. For this reason, it's important to know what hypoglycemia is, what symptoms of hypoglycemia are, and how to treat hypoglycemia.

The symptoms of hypoglycemia include:

• Shakiness
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Hunger
• Headache
• Pale skin color
• Sudden moodiness or behavior changes, such as crying for no apparent reason
• Clumsy or jerky movements
• Seizure
• Difficulty paying attention, or confusion
• Tingling sensations around the mouth

How do you treat hypoglycemia?

The quickest way to raise your blood glucose and treat hypoglycemia is with some form of sugar, such as 3 glucose tablets (you can buy these at the drug store), 1/2 cup of fruit juice, or 5-6 pieces of hard candy.

Hyperglycemia

A condition in which an excessive amount of glucose circulates in the blood, also known as (high blood glucose).  Hyperglycemia occurs when the body has insufficient insulin or when the body cannot use insulin properly. As a result, elevated levels of glucose remain in the bloodstream instead of entering the cells and being converted to energy. Therefore, individuals with hyperglycemia often experience fatigue.  If you have type 2  diabetes, your body may have enough insulin, but it is not as effective as it should be.  The term hyper-, meaning excessive; -glyc-, meaning sweet; and -emia, meaning "of the blood".
What are the symptoms of hyperglycemia?

The signs and symptoms include: high blood glucose, high levels of sugar in the urine, frequent urination, and increased thirst. It's important to treat hyperglycemia as soon as you detect it. If you fail to treat hyperglycemia, a condition called ketoacidosis (diabetic coma) could occur. Ketoacidosis develops when your body doesn't have enough insulin. Without insulin, your body can't use glucose for energy.  So, your body breaks down fats to use for energy. When your body breaks down fats, waste products called ketones are produced. Your body cannot tolerate large amounts of ketones and will try to get rid of them through the urine. Unfortunately, the body cannot release all the ketones and they build up in your blood. This can lead to ketoacidosis.

The symptoms of hyperglycemia include:

• Shortness of breath
• breath that smells fruity
• nausea and vomiting
• a very dry mouth

How do you treat hyperglycemia?

Often, you can lower your blood glucose level by exercising.  If your blood glucose is above 240 mg/dl, check your urine for ketones. If you have ketones, do not exercise.
Exercising when ketones are present may make your blood glucose level go even higher. You'll need to work with your doctor to find the safest way for you to lower your blood glucose level. Cutting down on the amount of food you eat might also help. Work with your dietitian to make changes in your meal plan. If exercise and changes in your diet don't work, your doctor may change the amount of your medication or insulin or possibly the timing of when you take it.