Blood sugar, also known as blood glucose, is the sugar in the bloodstream. Glucose comes from foods rich in carbohydrates such as grains, fruits, vegetables and sweets. It is the main source of energy for the body. Normally, blood sugar levels rise and fall slightly after eating. This causes the pancreas to release the hormone insulin, which regulates elevated blood sugar.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a metabolism disorder. Normally, food is eaten and digested into glucose. The glucose is used for energy by cells in the body and regulated pancreatic hormone insulin. In people with diabetes, the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin or the cells do not respond to insulin. This results in excess glucose in the blood stream, which overflows into urine, leaving the body without enough glucose for energy. Diabetes is treated by daily blood glucose checks, proper diet and exercise.
Types of Diabetes
There are three types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the pancreas does not function properly. A person with type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily to survive. It is usually diagnosed in children and young adults. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form. In type 2, the body develops insulin resistance. It is typically the result of obesity, age and family history. Gestational diabetes occurs during some pregnancies. Pregnancy hormones and an insulin deficiency are the cause.
Testing
There are several types of blood glucose tests. They are performed to check for and monitor diabetes or to diagnose low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Fasting blood sugar (FBS) is used to check for prediabetes and diabetes. You have to fast for 8 or more hours prior to testing a FBS. A random blood sugar (RBS) test determines blood glucose levels regardless of food intake. It is taken several times throughout the day to ascertain if blood sugar levels vary greatly during the day. An oral glucose test is a sequence of blood sugar measurements taken after you drink a glucose beverage. This is commonly used to diagnose gestational diabetes.
Blood glucose is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Levels less than 100 mg/dL are considered normal. A measurement of 100 to 126 mg/dL identifies prediabetes. If you have test result greater than 126 mg/dL you are diagnosed with diabetes.
High Blood Glucose
High blood glucose, or hyperglycemia, is a major concern for those living with diabetes. It is caused by inadequate insulin, too much food, a reduction in activity and/or stress. Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, high amounts of sugar in urine and high blood glucose levels.
If untreated, hyperglycemia could turn into ketoacidosis, also known as a diabetic coma. Symptoms of ketoacidosis include fruity-smelling breath, nausea, vomiting and dry mouth. Contact a medical professional immediately if symptoms arise. Blood sugar levels that are consistently high can result in damage to nerves, kidneys, eyes and blood vessels.
Low Blood Glucose
Hypoglycemia is unusually low blood sugar (less than 80 mg/dL). It occurs typically in diabetes, but there are other medical conditions where hypoglycemia is possible. Causes consist of administration of too much insulin, excess exercise or inadequate food intake. Symptoms include blurred vision, faintness, confusion, anxiety and sweating. Treatment for hypoglycemia consists of eating a form of sugar via three glucose tablets, ½ cup of fruit juice or several pieces of hard candy. Contact a medical professional if symptoms persist.
