Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Blood Sugar Levels You Must Know

Diabetes is becoming a global health crisis, affecting millions of people worldwide. This chronic condition leads to high blood sugar levels, which must be managed throughout life.

Diabetes can affect anyone, regardless of age, but certain factors increase the risk. People who are overweight, lead a sedentary lifestyle, or have unhealthy eating habits are at a higher risk of developing diabetes.

In the early stages, diabetes is often hard to detect, making it a silent killer. Therefore, it is crucial to understand what normal blood sugar levels are and when they reach a dangerous range.

What is the Normal and High Blood Sugar Range?

Blood sugar levels are measured both before and after meals:

 Fasting Blood Sugar (Before Eating)
 Postprandial Blood Sugar (After Eating)

Normal Blood Sugar Levels

 Fasting (Before Eating): 60-100 mg/dL
 After Meals (2 Hours Later): 120-140 mg/dL

Dangerous Blood Sugar Levels

 Above 200 mg/dL: High blood sugar (requires monitoring).
 Above 300 mg/dL: Severely high blood sugar, can lead to serious complications.

 If your blood sugar crosses 300 mg/dL, seek medical attention immediately.

When Does a Person Develop Diabetes?

Diabetes is diagnosed when:
 Fasting Blood Sugar is above 125 mg/dL
 Post-meal Blood Sugar exceeds 160 mg/dL

How is Diabetes Confirmed?

 HbA1C Test: Measures average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months.
 Diabetes is confirmed if HbA1C is 6.5% or higher.
 People over 35 should get an HbA1C test regularly to detect diabetes early.

Symptoms of High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

High blood sugar levels can lead to various symptoms, which may vary in severity.

Early Symptoms of High Blood Sugar:

 Excessive thirst
 Frequent urination
 Fatigue and weakness
 Severe muscle pain
 Blurred vision
 Headache and dizziness

 If these symptoms appear, check your blood sugar immediately.

Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Low blood sugar can be equally dangerous and should be treated immediately.

Signs of Low Blood Sugar:

 Confusion and dizziness
 Excessive sweating
 Sudden anger or irritability
 Difficulty walking or balancing
 Rapid heartbeat (Fast pulse rate)
 Hunger and extreme fatigue
 Weakness in muscles
 Difficulty speaking properly

 If blood sugar drops too low (below 60 mg/dL), eat something sweet immediately and consult a doctor.

How to Manage Diabetes?

 Monitor blood sugar regularly.
 Exercise daily (30 minutes of walking or yoga).
 Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber and protein.
 Avoid sugary foods, processed foods, and excess carbs.
 Manage stress and get enough sleep.
 Follow medication and doctor’s advice.

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