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Pediatric Blood Sugar Ranges

A child with diabetes must keep his blood sugar at a certain level to avoid deadly complications from the disease. Healthy pediatric blood sugar ranges are similar to healthy ranges for adults. But in the case of a child, blood sugar levels can change more quickly due to their increased metabolism and energy output. A diabetic child who can't maintain proper blood sugar levels should have his parents talk with a doctor about changing diet or medication.

  1. Diabetes and Pediatric Blood Sugar

    • In diabetes, a child's pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, or none at all. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

    The Best Pediatric Blood Sugar Ranges

    • Blood sugar is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) says the best blood sugar ranges for a child are 70 to 110 mg/dL before meals, and 100 to 140 mg/dL at bedtime.

    Too High or Too Low Pediatric Blood Sugar

    • The JDRF says if your blood sugar before meals is lower than 70 mg/dL or higher than 140 mg/dL, or your blood sugar at bedtime is consistently lower than 100 mg/dL or higher than 160 mg/dL, you need to talk to your doctor.

    Pediatric Hypoglycemia

    • Pediatric hypoglycemia refers to blood sugar that's too low. Taking too much insulin or not eating enough can lead to pediatric hypoglycemia.

    Pediatric Hyperglycemia

    • Hyperglycemia refers to blood sugar that's too high. A diabetic child who eats foods high in sugar or carbs, or doesn't take insulin as prescribed, can become very ill, fall into a coma or even die from pediatric hyperglycemia.

    Symptoms of Pediatric Blood Sugar Problems

    • If pediatric blood sugar is outside the healthy ranges, a child can suffer from extreme thirst, frequent urination, drowsiness, vision changes, increased appetite, weight loss, fruity-smelling breath, labored breathing and/or unconsciousness.

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