Q: My friend has type 1 diabetes and is insulin dependant. He takes 2-3 shots of insulin injections everyday. Usually his blood sugar level is under control, but all of sudden his blood sugar levels have risen above 300 mg/dl. It has been more than 2 weeks now and he is not doing well. He had to be hospitalised 2 days back. The doctor could not determine any reason for a sudden rise in sugar levels. What are the probable causes for this? Please refer names of doctors or hospitals where he could get himself checked properly.

A:Any stress, physical (infection, trauma, heart attack etc.) or mental stress can lead to a rise in blood glucose. less insulin or expiry-date insulin or insulin exposed to higher temperature can inactivate insulin - use of such can also lead to such a rise in blood glucose. You may consult any endocrinologist for further advise.