What Level of Blood Sugar is Dangerous?

Keeping an eye on blood sugar levels, also called blood glucose levels, is key for health. Blood sugar levels play a crucial role in keeping our bodies working properly. 

But the question here is, what blood sugar level is dangerous?

To understand this, you must first understand fasting and postprandial sugar levels. 

Fasting blood sugar is the glucose in your body after not waiting for a stretch, and postprandial levels show how your body deals with sugar after you eat.

In this blog, let’s explore blood sugar levels, what influences them, the signs of dangerously high levels, and how to maintain healthy levels.

What Are Blood Sugar Levels?

Diabetes is a health condition in which the body is unable to manage blood sugar levels. It occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose from the food we eat to enter our cells and be used for energy. Without proper insulin function, glucose remains in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it.

Why is blood sugar regulation important?

• It ensures your body has enough energy.
• It prevents the harmful effects of high or low blood sugar levels.

The hormone insulin helps glucose enter cells, where it's used for energy. When this system doesn't function properly, blood sugar levels can spike or drop to dangerous levels.

Factors That Influence Blood Sugar Levels

Blood sugar levels may be influenced by several factors, including:

1. Diet- What you eat impacts your body in certain ways. Therefore, sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods can spike blood sugar levels. Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients, protein, and healthy fats to control your blood sugar levels.
2. Physical Activity—Strenuous exercise and a sedentary lifestyle may also influence blood sugar levels. However, moderate exercise can help lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity.
3. Stress- Often feel stressed? This might be a reason for high blood sugar levels.
4. Medications- A few medicines, such as steroids or diuretics, can impact your blood sugar levels. 
5. Sleep Patterns- Poor sleeping patterns might impact your blood sugar levels.
6. Alcohol and Smoking- The people who smoke or consume excessive alcohol have high blood sugar levels. 

Normal Blood Sugar Levels

Normal blood sugar ranges for fasting and postprandial are as follows-

Age Group	Fasting (mg/dL)	Postprandial (2 hours after eating, mg/dL)
Children (<18 years)	70-100	<140
Adults (18-60 years)	70-99	<140
Older Adults (>60)	80-110	<160
Pregnant Women	70-95	<120

Key Notes:

• Fasting blood sugar levels are measured after an overnight fasting.
• Postprandial blood sugar is tested two hours after eating.
• These ranges may vary slightly depending on individual health and medical guidelines.

What level of blood sugar is dangerous for Type 2 diabetes?

A blood sugar level higher or lower than normal indicates abnormal blood sugar levels, which can lead to long-term health risks.

1. Dangerously Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

• Levels: Below 70 mg/dL
• Causes: Skipping meals, excessive insulin, or overexertion during exercise.
• Symptoms: Sweating, shakiness, confusion, dizziness, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness.

2. Dangerously High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

• Levels: Above 180 mg/dL post-meal or above 240 mg/dL at any time.
• Causes: Uncontrolled diabetes, Stress, certain medications, or any potential health condition.
• Symptoms: Frequent urination, Increased thirst, fatigue, and blurred vision.

Critical Thresholds:

• Blood sugar above 300 mg/dL can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening condition.
• Blood sugar levels over 600 mg/dL can result in a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), which requires immediate medical intervention.

High Blood Sugar Level Symptoms

Here are common signs of high blood sugar levels-

1. Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination
2. Fatigue
3. Blurred Vision
4. Unexplained Weight Loss
5. Slow Healing Wounds
6. Recurring Infections

How to Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels?

Managing blood sugar levels is important to maintain overall health and prevent complications. Here are practical tips for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels- 

• Follow a Balanced Diet. Focus on low-glycemic-index (GI) foods like whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins. Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods.
• Exercise Regularly- Aim to exercise for at least 150 minutes per week. You can include walking, swimming, or yoga. Strength training helps improve insulin sensitivity.
• Stay Hydrated- Drinking water helps the kidneys flush out excess sugar.
• Monitor Blood Sugar Levels- Regular monitoring helps identify trends and triggers.
• Manage Stress- Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness.
• Follow Your Doctor’s Advice- Take prescribed medications or insulin as directed.
• Prioritize Sleep- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep daily to maintain hormonal balance.

Important Tests to Diagnose Blood Sugar Levels

Various blood tests can help you to monitor and diagnose your blood sugar levels-

Glucose Fasting Test 

• Measures blood sugar after an overnight fast.
• Normal Range: 70-99 mg/dL

Glucose PP (Post Prandial) Test

• This test measures blood sugar levels two hours after eating.
• Normal Range: Less than 140 mg/dL

HbA1c Test

• This HbA1C blood test provides an average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months.
• Normal Range: Below 5.7%

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

• Assesses the body’s ability to handle glucose over time.

Glucose Random Test 

• The GTT test measures blood sugar at any time of the day.
• Normal Range: Less than 200 mg/dL

The Key Takeaways

Understanding and knowing your blood sugar levels is important to maintain good health. Whether you are a young adult or senior citizen, get your blood sugar levels checked regularly. Regular monitoring, a healthy lifestyle, and early intervention can help prevent dangerous spikes or drops in blood sugar levels. 

However, always consult your doctor if you notice any abnormal symptoms. Diabetes is manageable with a healthy lifestyle. Choose healthy to stay healthy.

FAQ

1. What is an unsafe blood sugar level?

Blood sugar levels between 180 mg/dL and 250 mg/dL are considered high blood glucose or hyperglycemia. A reading higher than 250 is considered dangerous. 

2. What is an alarming blood sugar level?

The blood glucose range above 240 mg/dL is alarming. If the blood sugar level is 300 mg/dL or higher, blood sugar level can be dangerous. You should call your doctor if you have two readings in a row of 300 mg/dL or higher. 

3. Is 400 sugar levels dangerous?

Yes, a blood sugar level of 400 mg/dL or higher is extremely dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.