Hyperglycemia vs Hypoglycemia: A
Physiotherapy Guide
This table provides a comparison between hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, especially focused
on physiotherapy practice, exercise precautions, and patient education.
Feature Hyperglycemia Hypoglycemia
Definition High blood glucose (> 180
mg/dL or >10 mmol/L)
Low blood glucose (< 70
mg/dL or <3.9 mmol/L)
Common Causes Missed insulin, overeating,
infection, stress
Too much insulin, missed
meals, excess exercise
Symptoms Polyuria, polydipsia, fatigue,
blurred vision, dry mouth
Sweating, shakiness,
dizziness, confusion, hunger
Onset Gradual Sudden
Physiotherapy Precautions Avoid intense exercise if
blood glucose > 250 mg/dL
with ketones
Do not start exercise if
glucose < 100 mg/dL; give
quick carbs first
Exercise Advice Mild/moderate exercise may
help lower glucose (if no
ketones)
Delay exercise until glucose
is normalized
Emergency Management Hydration, insulin, medical
attention if ketones present
Immediate intake of 15–20g
fast-acting carbs (e.g. juice,
glucose tabs)
Education Tips (PT Role) Teach signs of high glucose &
importance of hydration
Teach early signs of low
sugar and always carry
snacks
Monitoring Monitor before and after
exercise; avoid overexertion
Monitor closely pre-, during,
and post-exercise
Long-Term Risks Nerve, kidney, eye,
cardiovascular damage
Seizures, unconsciousness,
death (if untreated)
