3 a.m. blood sugar reading

Question

I'm a novice when it comes to diabetes so I could use some help.  I'm on 2.5mg of Glipizide and have been for about four years.  My doctor discourages blood glucose testings -- says that's only necessary if I were on insulin.  However, I will occasionally check my blood sugar -- maybe once or twice a month or if I'm not feeling well.
     I checked it on Sunday and found it was running somewhat high.  Just for the heck of it, I checked it when I went to bed and it was 336 around 10 p.m.  I happened to wake up at 3 a.m. to use the restroom and thought I would check it again since it was kind of high when I went to bed.  I expected to see a substantial drop in number (is that correct)?  It was 317.
     I checked a couple of times throughout the day yesterday and it continued to run somewhat high.  At 10 p.m. it was 274 and again I woke up this morning around 3 a.m. and checked it.  It's at 252 now.
     I thought the 3 a.m. reading should be substantially lower than the daytime readings.  Is this correct??  I was surprised to find it had not dropped significantly??
     I don't want to talk to my doctor about this because I would have to admit I did a testing.  How should the 3 a.m. reading compare to the daytime readings?  Any information would be appreciated.
     Thanks

gmurf · Answer

If you can't get another doctor, maybe have him refer you Endocrinologist. You test results seem high to me. Here's a link that may help: http://diabetes.webmd.com/blood-glucose-control I was diagnosed several years back with considerable lower test, I was started on Metaformin and Glipizide. Over time have switched Glipizide to Gliburide. and increased doses. Have just recently tried Actos. It got my tests down, even to hypo. And did things that I had to drop it.

I agree the Hm A1c is the benchmark to follow. Another diffinete thing to do is to marry yourself to Google. and start with diabetes searches.

I agree the Hm A1c is the benchmark to follow.  Another diffinete thing to do is to marry yourself to Google. and start with diabetes searches.

GoldenKatie · Answer

You guys are all so great.  I do have another question.  Two nights ago, after a late lunch, I tested at 407.  It was already dark, so I couldn't go out and walk.  When it gets that high, what can I do in place of walking and/or exercise?  What do you all do?
     Also, I forgot to answer the AIC question.  The last time it was taken was last May or June and I didn't get any feedback on the results, so I'm assuming it came back OK.
    And, I'm much more proactive on this than my other family members -- I'm always the one trying to motivate them.  I just wish I had more info. on what I can do.  I read this forum and gain insight there . . . 
    Thanks again

xxbowiexx · Answer

i'm glad you are being proactive about it.  I think it's also vital to talk to your family about your willingness to keep your diabetes under control.  Ask your family members to continually motivate you and keep you on your exercise and diet regiment.  I think with their help and your willingness, you will be alot better off than not doing anything at all.

GoldenKatie · Answer

Thanks everyone.
     I appreciate all the input.  I agree I need some help here, doctorwise, however, I live in a small mountain community and it's not as easy to change as it would be in a larger city.  
     As far as I know the test strips are OK.  I had a couple of urine test strips and it tested the highest -- but no ketones, so that is good.
     Since last week I have increased my exercise (briskly walked two+ miles yesterday - and will again today) and have cut out all sugars and reduced carbs.  The fasting this morning is showing 202.
     My mother passed away two years ago with complications from diabetes and both my brother and sister are on insulin and have complications - so I know how important it is.
     I somehow feel I should be able to turn this around if I keep my exercise increased and really watch the diet, which is what I'm trying.  I've lost 3 pounds the past three days.
     I will attack this aggressively and try to keep on top of this until I see some changes in numbers for the better.

Sisteranita3 · Answer

I am amazed that a physician treating a Diabetic would say that testing your blood glucose level daily is not important.  My doctor (and my Diabetes nurse) want me to test 4 or 5 times a day.  I have committed to twice a day but try to do more.  I take 40mg of Glipizide & 2000mg of Glucophage daily.

If your blood levels are that high, you either are not taking enough medication or are eating the wrong amount of food.  Believe me, those levels are TOO HIGH for your health.

My only suggestion to you is to find another Doctor, immediately if not sooner.

Anita

Super_sally888 · Answer

Hi,

what is your HA1c numbers?  This gives an average of what is going on.

Your blood sugar levels are really very high.  this means that your diabetes is not under control and you are causing damage to yourself.

You need to discuss this with your doctor.  Regular monitoring is part of managing diabetes.  I can't believe that he would discourage you from doing this.

If your doctor won't work in partnership with you AND help you get your BS under control, then it's time for a new doctor.

Best wishes

xxbowiexx · Answer

I don't see any harm in checking your blood sugar in order to monitor it.  I'm quite surprised to see that your doctor said against it.  Since i do not know your condition fully so i cannot jump into conclusion.  If you are feeling uncomfortable telling your doctor that your blood sugar is so HIGH, i would recommend seeing another doc.  Normal BS is around 70-130 mg/dL....yours being quite high does pose some serious concern.  Best of luck to you.