Blood sugar levels that are too high or too low can be dangerous for people with diabetes. High blood sugar levels, or hyperglycemia, can lead to long-term complications such as nerve damage, kidney damage, and cardiovascular disease. Low blood sugar levels, or hypoglycemia, can lead to immediate symptoms such as shakiness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends the following blood sugar level targets for adults with diabetes:

  • Fasting blood sugar: 80-130 mg/dL
  • Blood sugar before meals: 80-130 mg/dL
  • Blood sugar two hours after meals: less than 180 mg/dL

However, it's important to note that blood sugar targets may vary depending on the individual's age, duration of diabetes, and other health conditions. Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine the appropriate blood sugar targets for your specific situation.

is falling asleep after eating a sign of diabetes can be measured using a glucose meter, which uses a small drop of blood from a finger prick to give a reading. If you have diabetes, it's important to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to ensure they stay within a safe range.

So, what levels of blood sugar are considered dangerous?

High blood sugar levels, or hyperglycemia, can occur when the body doesn't have enough insulin to convert glucose into energy. Symptoms of hyperglycemia can include increased thirst and urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow healing of cuts and wounds.

Blood sugar levels above 180 mg/dL after meals or above 250 mg/dL at any time of day are considered high and can be dangerous if left untreated. If your blood sugar levels are consistently high, your healthcare provider may adjust your medication or insulin regimen to help bring them down.

Severe hyperglycemia, or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), can occur when blood sugar levels are very high for an extended period of time. DKA can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, rapid breathing, and confusion. If left untreated, DKA can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Low blood sugar levels, or hypoglycemia, can occur when blood sugar levels drop below the target range. This can be caused by taking too much medication or insulin, skipping meals, or engaging in strenuous exercise without adjusting medication or food intake.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia can include shakiness, sweating, confusion, irritability, and even loss of consciousness. Blood sugar levels below 70 mg/dL are considered low and can be dangerous if left untreated.

If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, it's important to treat it immediately by consuming a fast-acting source of glucose such as fruit juice, candy, or glucose tablets. You should also check your blood sugar levels and adjust your medication or food intake as needed to prevent future episodes of hypoglycemia.

In conclusion, blood sugar levels that are too high or too low can be dangerous for people with diabetes. The ADA recommends blood sugar level targets of 80-130 mg/dL for fasting and before meals, and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after meals. Blood sugar levels above 180 mg/dL after meals or above 250 mg/dL at any time of day are considered high, while levels below 70 mg/dL are considered low. It's important to monitor your is falling asleep after eating sugar a sign of diabetes regularly and work with your healthcare provider to adjust your medication or insulin regimen as needed to ensure they stay within a safe range. If you experience symptoms of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, seek medical attention immediately.