Blood Sugar Level Charts: Normal Blood Sugar Levels up to Diabetes Levels

Blood Sugar Level Charts

Here's a blood sugar chart that includes normal, prediabetes, and diabetes levels:

Condition	Fasting Blood Sugar (mg/dL)	2 Hours After Meal (mg/dL)	A1C (%)
Normal	Less than 100	Less than 140	Less than 5.7
Prediabetes	100-125	140-199	5.7-6.4
Diabetes	126 or higher	200 or higher	6.5 or higher

Additional Blood Sugar Level Information

Fasting Blood Glucose: This test measures blood sugar levels after not eating or drinking for at least 8 hours.
2 Hours After Meal (Postprandial): This test measures blood sugar levels 2 hours after consuming a meal.
A1C (Glycated Hemoglobin): This test provides an average of blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It does not require fasting.
Random Blood Sugar: A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher, along with symptoms of diabetes (such as increased thirst, urination, and unexplained weight loss), can also be used to diagnose diabetes.
Gestational Diabetes: Pregnant women may have different target ranges for blood sugar levels. The diagnosis is made based on an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): Some people with diabetes may use a CGM device to track blood sugar levels throughout the day, helping them make informed decisions about diet, exercise, and medication.
Hypoglycemia: Blood sugar levels below 70 mg/dL are considered low (hypoglycemia) and can be dangerous if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of High and Low Blood Sugar

It's essential to recognize the common symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) to help manage your blood sugar levels effectively and prevent complications.

Symptoms of Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)

- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Unexplained weight loss
- Dry, itchy skin
- Recurrent infections

If left untreated, high blood sugar can lead to serious complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), which require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of these conditions can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and even loss of consciousness.

Symptoms of Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

- Shakiness or tremors
- Sweating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Confusion or disorientation
- Irritability or mood changes
- Hunger
- Headache
- Pale skin
- Weakness or fatigue

In severe cases, low blood sugar can lead to seizures, loss of consciousness, or even coma. If you experience symptoms of low blood sugar, it's so important to act quickly by consuming fast-acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets, fruit juice, or regular soda to raise your blood sugar levels.

If you frequently experience symptoms of high or low blood sugar, make sure you talk with your doctor to help you develop a personalized plan. This will likely involve adjusting your diet, exercise routine, or medication regimen to better control your blood sugar levels and prevent complications.