In times of emotional stress, what change is expected in a well-controlled diabetic's blood sugar levels?

In times of emotional stress, an individual's body generates a stress response that often triggers the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline (epinephrine). These hormones play a crucial role in the body's ability to cope with stress by elevating blood sugar levels. This process is essential for providing immediate energy to muscles and brain, which can be critical during stressful situations.

For someone with well-controlled diabetes, the physiological response to stress remains similar to that of an individual without diabetes; however, their already sensitive blood sugar regulation could lead to increased glucose levels in the blood. Even if a diabetic has their condition well-managed, the stress response may cause an overproduction of glucose by the liver and decrease the effectiveness of insulin, resulting in hyperglycemia, or increased blood sugar levels.

Therefore, during periods of emotional stress, it is expected that a well-controlled diabetic will experience an increase in blood sugar levels due to these physiological changes.