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Blood glucose is the amount of sugar in the blood, often measured to diagnose diabetes. It comes from carbohydrates in the diet and is regulated by insulin. High levels indicate diabetes, while low levels can cause confusion and seizures. Lifestyle changes and medication can manage high blood sugar.
Serum glucose, also known as blood sugar, is the amount of glucose or sugar in the blood. Its measurement is often performed to establish the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Regular blood glucose monitoring is also essential in the management and treatment of people with diabetes.
Blood glucose comes mainly from dietary sources, such as carbohydrates. Carbohydrates in the diet are usually broken down into smaller structures called glucose, which are then distributed throughout the body via the blood to be used as energy by cells. As blood sugar rises, the pancreas releases insulin production. Insulin is an important hormone that regulates the uptake of glucose into cells throughout the body. When insulin is low, as in cases of diabetes and pancreatic cancer, glucose is not absorbed by cells and its concentration remains constantly high in the blood.
The usual procedure for testing blood glucose is to take a fasting blood glucose test. Patients are instructed to fast overnight, i.e. not to eat food for at least eight hours. Normally, the blood glucose concentration is 100 mg/dL. A fasting blood sugar between 100 mg/dL and 126 mg/dL is said to put an individual into a stage of prediabetes. Dietary precautions and lifestyle changes are often encouraged for individuals with blood sugar levels within this range, in order to halt the development of diabetes.
High blood sugar or hyperglycemia, usually 126 mg/dL or more, often indicates diabetes. Other conditions in which blood sugar is elevated are also pancreatitis, Cushing’s syndrome and chronic renal failure. Too many sugary foods and drinks can also cause blood glucose levels to rise temporarily. Medications, such as corticosteroids and antidepressants, are among the many types of medications that can also lead to hyperglycemia. Symptoms associated with hyperglycemia include increased thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision.
Hypoglycemia or a low blood glucose concentration, usually less than 70 mg/dL, may also occur. It is mainly seen in conditions such as hypothyroidism and insulinoma, a rare tumor of the pancreas that secretes large amounts of insulin. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include confusion, dizziness, fatigue and, in severe cases, seizures and coma.
Management of high blood sugar, such as that seen in cases of diabetes, often includes lifestyle changes including getting regular exercise, eating healthy meals, and avoiding foods that can raise blood sugar. Proper adherence to daily medications is strongly encouraged. Blood glucose testing is also performed regularly to monitor the patient’s response to treatment.
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