Correct Sugar Level for Diabetics

Diabetes is a medical condition whereby the pancreas produces too little insulin. Insulin is a hormone that bonds with glucose in the bloodstream to turn it into fuel for the body. The American Diabetes Association estimates that 8 percent of the U.S. population suffers from some form of diabetes.

Normal Blood Glucose Levels

• A normal level of blood glucose, commonly referred to as blood sugar, is between 70 and 120 mg/dl (milliliters of glucose to deciliters of blood). These levels may fluctuate after a meal or exercise or during times of severe illness or stress. Persistent blood glucose levels outside the normal range should be treated by a physician to avoid serious health risks.

Testing

• Blood sugar level is tested using a blood glucose meter, also called a glucometer. Diabetics should test their level before each meal and at bedtime, at the minimum.

Treatment

• Treatment for type I diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, and type II diabetes, also known as adult onset diabetes, includes a low-carbohydrate, low-sugar diet and regular exercise. Type I diabetes also requires daily injections of insulin. Type II diabetics use oral medication to help control blood glucose levels.

Hyperglycemia

• Hyperglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels rise above 120 mg/dl. If high blood glucose levels persist for a prolonged period of time, medication or insulin injections may be required. Untreated hyperglycemia can result in vision, kidney, heart and circulation problems; coma; or death.

Hypoglycemia

• Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels drop below 70 mg/dl. Suggested treatment includes ingestion of a sugary drink, followed by some solid protein and carbohydrates. An unconscious diabetic can be treated with a glucose gel or cake frosting swabbed on the interior of the cheek, or a glucose injection. Untreated episodes of severe hypoglycemia cause convulsions or death.