How much does stress (extreme and chronic) affect blood sugar readings and diabetes in general?

Hard to quantify: Exactly "how much" extreme, chronic stress affects blood sugar is hard to quantify. But blood sugar can be much harder to control. In stress, glucagon and Epinephrine levels rise, and the liver releases more glucose. Growth hormone and cortisol levels also rise, making muscle and fat less sensitive to insulin. Then, taking more Insulin or medication in response to this can lead to hypoglycemia.