What is the normal blood sugar level?
Being a diabetes specialist I often get questions like this - "Hello Sir , I am Rahul from Noida . My fasting sugar levels are between 83-98 , PP lies between 160-170 and after 3-4 hours of meal my blood sugar comes below 100. What is my current situation, am I diabetic or not?"
Do you want to know the answer ? read on ….
Also , if you've got any queries , please put it in the comment section below
What are normal blood sugar levels?
Normal blood sugar levels are typically between 70-100 mg/dL when fasting and under 140 mg/dL two hours after a meal.
A fasting blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or higher is considered diabetic. Blood sugar level higher than 200 mg/dl after 2 hours of a meal is also labelled as diabetic.
What is normal blood sugar range for diabetics?
People with diabetes have blood sugar levels that are higher than normal. Blood sugar levels can be affected by many things, including how much food a person eats, how active they are, and their hormones. Most people with diabetes are advised to maintain their normal blood sugar range between 110 and 140 mg/dl +/- 30 mg/dl (7.9 to 10.5 mmol/L) . However, some people have blood sugar levels that are much higher or lower than this range.
What level of blood sugar is dangerous?
Levels below 70 mg/dL are indicative of hypoglycemia, which can be dangerous.
Also , very high sugar levels consistently above 350mg/dl are indicative of hyperglycemia which if not managed properly can lead to hyperglycemic coma and other long term diabetic complications.
What are the benefits of normal blood sugar levels?
Normal blood sugar levels are those that are consistent with good health. Blood sugar levels that are too high or too low can be dangerous and can lead to health problems. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that blood sugar levels be kept as close to normal as possible. This can be done by maintaining a healthy diet, being physically active, and taking medications, if necessary.
How to measure blood glucose levels?
Blood glucose levels can be monitored through a blood sugar test. Blood glucose levels are most commonly measured using a device called a glucometer. This device uses a small sample of blood that is placed on a test strip. The test strip is then inserted into the glucometer, and the device will give you a reading of your blood sugar level.
What is hypoglycemia and what can you do about it?
Hypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels fall too low.
Cause of hypoglycemia
This can happen when you do not eat enough, or when you exercise too much . It can also occur because of diabetic medications like glibenclamide ( long- acting sulphonylurea ) or insulin .
Symptoms of low blood sugar
This low sugar levels can cause a variety of symptoms, including shakiness, dizziness, sweating, and confusion. If left untreated, hypoglycemia can cause seizures or even death. They may also have a racing heart or feel clammy.
Treatment of hypoglycemia
If you have hypoglycemia, it is important to eat something sugary right away to raise your blood sugar levels. Treatment typically involves eating or drinking foods for low blood sugar that contains sugar, such as candy or fruit juice.
What is hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels are abnormally high.
Cause of hyperglycemia
This can be caused by a number of factors, including diabetes, pancreatitis, and certain medications.
Symptoms of high sugar
Symptoms of hyperglycemia can include confusion, extreme thirst, and frequent urination. Left untreated, hyperglycemia can lead to a number of serious health complications, including heart disease, kidney failure, and blindness.
What to do when blood sugar is high
Treatment of hyperglycemia generally involves lifestyle changes and medications. Lifestyle changes may include diet and exercise modifications, as well as smoking cessation. Medications may include insulin and other diabetes medications.
How do diabetes complications develop?
Some people with diabetes can have so-called "complications" that may develop years after the diagnosis. Complications of diabetes mellitus include:
Heart Disease - People with diabetes are at greater risk for heart disease.
Kidney Disease - People with diabetes are at greater risk for kidney disease.
Foot Problems - People with diabetes are at greater risk for foot problems, such as ulcers or sores on their feet (called diabetic foot).
Vision Problems - People with diabetes are at greater risk for vision problems, such as cataracts (cloudy lenses) or glaucoma (high pressure in the eyes).
Macular Degeneration - People with diabetes are at greater risk for macular degeneration.
Diabetic retinopathy (eye disease caused by high blood sugar levels) - The most common cause of blindness in people with diabetes.
Retinal detachments - Retinal detachments are a form of retinal disease that can lead to vision loss.
What is HbA1c test?
Hemoglobin A1c or Glycosylated hemoglobin is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. It is a good indicator of how well your diabetes is controlled.
Blood sugar levels are something that people frequently worry about. They can be a bit of a mystery to many people, but there are some general guidelines that can help you understand what is considered "normal." Generally speaking, blood sugar levels should be in a range of 70-120 mg/dL for most adults. However, this number can vary based on age, sex, and other factors. Additionally, blood sugar levels should always be checked regularly with a blood glucose meter to make sure they remain within the ranges listed above.
Very nice article it is.
Got so much information in a very simple form.