The body converts food into glucose, or blood sugar. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, regulates the level of glucose in the blood. The blood sugar enters the cells of the body to be used as energy. Blood sugar levels need to be monitored by diabetics, because their bodies do not have enough insulin or cannot use insulin properly. But blood sugar levels can also indicate health issues for people who are not diabetic.
Levels and Diabetes
Blood glucose tests can determine blood sugar levels. Fasting glucose level tests are usually given. This is when a person has blood drawn several hours before eating a meal and after their last meal. Normal blood sugar levels are considered to be up to 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Levels between 100 and 126 mg/dL may indicate prediabetes, a risk factor for type 2 diabetes in which the body does not produce enough insulin. Levels at 126 mg/dL or higher usually result in a diagnosis of diabetes.
Hyperglycemia
High blood sugar is called hyperglycemia. There may be too little insulin or too much food being consumed, according to the NIH. Aside from indicating diabetes, the levels may also suggest underlying disorders. Possibilities include hyperthyroidism, pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer or other disorders. Too much blood sugar can lead to heart disease, nerve damage and kidney problems.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, may indicate too little food or too much insulin. Non-diabetics may suffer from low blood sugar as well. Symptoms can include hunger, heart palpitations, anxiety, tremors and sweating. More serious symptoms include confusion, visual disturbances, and in rare cases, seizures or loss of consciousness, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Increases and Decreases
Severe stress from such serious conditions as trauma, surgery or heart attack can increase blood sugar levels, but only temporarily, the NIH says. Certain medications might also increase levels, including corticosteroids, diuretics, estrogen, lithium, antidepressants and other drugs. Alcohol, acetaminophen, anabolic steroids and other drugs can decrease blood sugar levels.
Monitoring
Diabetics need to monitor their blood sugar levels on a regular basis to manage their diets, activity and medication, and to avoid diabetic complications, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. They use a glucose meter to test their levels. They may monitor their levels one to three times a day, depending on their insulin doses, diet and physical activity that day. Doctors might recommend a certain number of tests depending on the type of diabetes and the person's individual treatment plan.
