How to Interpret Blood Glucose Levels

The blood glucose level is normally maintained within a relatively narrow range for most people. However, people with metabolic problems such as diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar level frequently and interpret the results. This will allow a person to take the corrective action needed to get the blood sugar level back into the desired range.

Things You'll Need

• Blood glucose monitor

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Instructions

• 1

  Examine the units of measure. Blood sugar readings are usually provided in units of milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood (mg/dl) but they may also be given in units of millimoles per liter (mmol/l.) You can convert a blood glucose reading from mg/dl units to mmol/l units by dividing by 18.

• 2

  Interpret a low blood sugar level. The blood sugar level should reach its lowest level just before eating. A normal blood sugar reading taken at this time is in the range of 90 to 130 mg/dl. A level below this range may be considered hypoglycemic but symptoms of low blood sugar may not occur until it drops below 55 mg/dl.

• 3

  Observe a high blood sugar level. The blood sugar level should reach its highest level about two hours after a meal. A normal blood sugar reading taken at this time should be less than 180 mg/dl. A higher blood sugar is considered hyperglycemic. However, the symptoms of hyperglycemia may not become noticeable until the blood sugar level reaches 270 mg/dl.

• 4

  Take a blood sugar reading just before going to sleep. The normal range for a blood sugar reading taken at this time is between 110 and 150 mg/dl.