What it means
In the early morning the body releases growth hormone and cortisol, which make the liver put out glucose. In people with diabetes, who cannot answer with enough insulin, the glucose climbs before breakfast. The overnight readings are normal or high, not low, which sets it apart from the Somogyi effectsoe-MOE-jee ih-FEKTA high morning blood glucose that follows a low blood glucose during the night.Full entry .
For the nurse
A 2 to 3 a.m. glucose check helps sort it out. Treatment may change the timing or dose of evening insulin, or use an insulin pump, as the provider orders.
Easy to confuse with
Somogyi effect
A high morning blood glucose that follows a low blood glucose during the night.
Related terms
insulin
A hormone made by the pancreas that lets the body's cells take in glucose, also made as a medicine.
hyperglycemia
A blood glucose level above normal, over 100 mg/dL when fasting.
cortisol
A steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands that helps control blood sugar, blood pressure, stress and inflammation.
Somogyi effect
A high morning blood glucose that follows a low blood glucose during the night.