Diabetes is a chronic disease that requires long-term management and treatment. It is a "silent killer," requiring constant vigilance and preventive measures. Only by developing a comprehensive control strategy can we effectively manage diabetes, protect our health, and improve our quality of life.

The Harmful Effects of Abnormal Blood Sugar Levels

1. Diabetes Complications

High blood sugar is a hallmark of diabetes. If not well controlled, it can lead to a range of complications such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney disease, diabetic retinopathy, and nerve damage.
These complications can severely impact a patient’s quality of life and overall health.

2. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

This is a severe complication of diabetes that can cause coma, shock, and even death.

3. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Hypoglycemia is a dangerous condition that can lead to loss of consciousness, coma, and death.
People with diabetes need to closely monitor their blood sugar levels to avoid hypoglycemic episodes.

4. Metabolic Syndrome

This is a group of metabolic disorders, including obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal lipid levels.
These disorders increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

5. Nutritional Imbalance

Both high and low blood sugar levels can cause nutritional imbalances, affecting the body's normal functions.
Prolonged high blood sugar can damage the eyes and lead to diabetic retinopathy, one of the most common microvascular complications of diabetes and the leading cause of blindness in adults.

The Impact of High Blood Sugar on Diabetic Retinopathy

The primary cause of diabetic retinopathy is damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to prolonged high blood sugar levels.

• When blood sugar is too high, oxygen supply to the small blood vessels in the retina is reduced, leading to vascular damage.
• Damaged blood vessels can form clots, blocking blood flow in the retina.
• Over time, these vessels harden, causing the retina to thin and even detach, leading to complete vision loss.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy:

• Blurred vision and reduced eyesight.
• Dark spots or flashes of light in vision.

If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately for an eye exam. Early detection and timely treatment can help protect vision.

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Blood Sugar Fluctuations Over 24 Hours

Blood sugar levels fluctuate throughout the day depending on lifestyle habits, diet, and metabolic activities. Below is the 24-hour cycle of blood sugar changes:

1:00 AM – 3:00 AM

• During deep sleep, blood sugar levels tend to decrease as the body rests and metabolic rate slows down.
• If dinner is eaten too late or contains excessive carbohydrates, blood sugar may rise, affecting sleep quality.

6:00 AM – 9:00 AM

• After breakfast, blood sugar spikes as the body absorbs and converts food into energy.
• Blood sugar levels peak around 9:00 AM.

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Before lunch, blood sugar gradually decreases as glucose from breakfast is used up.
• The body starts breaking down fat and protein to provide energy.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

• After lunch, blood sugar rises again, sometimes even higher than in the morning due to a larger food intake.

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

• After a short rest, blood sugar gradually decreases as the body resumes activity.
• Metabolism increases, consuming energy from lunch.

4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

• Before dinner, blood sugar tends to rise slightly as the body prepares for digestion.
• After dinner, blood sugar peaks again before gradually decreasing in the evening.

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Blood sugar increases after dinner, especially if the meal is rich in carbohydrates and sugars.
• This is a crucial time to control blood sugar, especially for diabetic patients.

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How to Effectively Control Blood Sugar?

Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring

People with diabetes should regularly check their blood sugar levels and follow their doctor’s treatment plan.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

• Follow a balanced diet, controlling carbohydrate and sugar intake.
• Exercise regularly to support glucose metabolism.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.

Early Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy

If diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, treatment options include:

• Medications to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eyes.
• Laser therapy to prevent leakage from damaged blood vessels.
• Surgery for severe cases.

Controlling blood sugar not only prevents severe complications but also ensures a healthier and better-quality life. Maintain healthy habits to protect your health!