Key takeaways
- Thirst and urination can signal highs.
- Shakiness and sweating can signal lows.
- Use the 15-15 rule for lows.
- Fruity breath and vomiting: emergency.
- Fainting or seizures: call 911.
Knowing the signs of high and low blood sugar helps you act quickly.
High vs. low blood sugar
| High blood sugar | Low blood sugar |
|---|---|
| Increased thirst | Shakiness |
| Frequent urination | Sweating, chills |
| Tiredness | Fast heartbeat |
| Blurred vision | Hunger, dizziness |
| Headache | Irritability, confusion |
The 15-15 rule for lows
- Take 15 grams of fast-acting sugar (4 oz juice or glucose tablets)
- Wait 15 minutes and recheck
- Repeat if still below 70 mg/dL
- Eat a snack or meal once it is back in range
Call 911 for fainting, seizures, a low that does not improve, or high blood sugar with vomiting, fruity breath or confusion.
If you take diabetes medicines, talk to your doctor before adding any supplement, including GlycoFortin, as some ingredients may lower blood sugar.
Sources
- CDC – "Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)."
- American Diabetes Association – "Hyperglycemia (high blood glucose)."
- NIDDK – "Low blood glucose (hypoglycemia)."
Common questions
What are signs of low blood sugar?
Shakiness, sweating, a fast heartbeat, hunger and confusion.
What is the 15-15 rule?
Take 15 g of fast sugar, wait 15 minutes, recheck.
When is high blood sugar an emergency?
With vomiting, fruity breath, deep breathing or confusion.