I am 59, female, with T2D. Why are my sugar levels high?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 59-year-old female. I have been suffering from type 2 diabetes for the past five years. I take my medications regularly.

I also regularly exercise, but lately, I seem to have high blood sugar levels. I do not know the reason.

Why do I face these high blood sugar levels sometimes? Is it due to poor control of blood sugar levels or due to poor functioning of my organs inside the body?

I want to know the exact reason behind it. I have some responsibilities, and I need to be alive for some time for my family. I am afraid of my raised blood sugar levels.

Please help me keep it under control.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Even small changes in your diet can impact blood sugar levels. My advice for you includes:

Foods that are high in carbohydrates or sugars, or even hidden sugars in processed foods, can cause spikes.
Portion sizes or the timing of meals can also affect glucose control.
Keeping a detailed food diary may help.
Stress, physical or emotional, can increase blood sugar levels. When stressed, your body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can raise blood sugar levels.
Over time, medications may not work as effectively as they once did due to changes in how your body responds to the medication or a progression of the condition. In such cases, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment.

Many people with diabetes experience something called the dawn phenomenon, where the liver releases extra glucose into the bloodstream in the early morning hours, leading to high blood sugar when you wake up. In such cases:

Regular exercise helps keep blood sugar in check.
Frequent testing can help identify patterns.
A balanced diet that is low in refined sugars and carbohydrates can help stabilize your blood sugar.
Eating more fiber-rich foods can also help.
A physical examination by your endocrinologist in a hospital is a must.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to follow up with any questions.

Thank you.