Certified Diabetes Educator Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Resource.

The Somogyi phenomenon is characterized by a rebound effect that occurs following nocturnal hypoglycemia. In this scenario, the blood glucose levels drop significantly during the night, often due to an overcorrection of insulin or too much insulin on board. In response to this low blood sugar, the body undergoes a counter-regulatory hormonal response, leading to the release of glucagon and epinephrine, which aim to raise blood glucose levels. This can result in higher than normal blood sugar levels in the morning as the body compensates for the previous drop.

It's important to understand that this phenomenon typically occurs without the individual being aware of the nocturnal low, which can lead to confusion in management strategies during the day. The implications for diabetes management are significant since individuals may incorrectly adjust their insulin doses, thinking their glucose levels are elevated due to insufficient insulin when, in fact, they may be experiencing this rebound effect.

The other options refer to different physiological processes unrelated to the Somogyi phenomenon, such as changes in insulin sensitivity during sleep, blood glucose responses to physical activity, and postprandial glucose spikes after meals, thus distinguishing the Somogyi effect from these common scenarios in diabetes management.