Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for anyone living with diabetes. Consistently high blood glucose can lead to serious health complications, and knowing what constitutes a dangerous level can help prevent long-term damage to your body.

What Is a Dangerous Blood Sugar Level?

For individuals with diabetes, the target blood glucose range is typically between 70 mg/dL and 130 mg/dL before meals, and 180 mg/dL or lower after meals. It is important to note that your glucose targets are individualised, so you should discuss them with your health care team.

But what happens when blood sugar levels go beyond these targets?

When blood glucose rises above 180 mg/dL after meals, it’s referred to as hyperglycemia. Occasional spikes are common, but consistently elevated blood sugar over time can increase the risk of developing complications. Blood sugar levels higher than 240 mg/dL are generally considered dangerously high, requiring immediate action. Levels reaching 300 mg/dL or above may even lead to life-threatening conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), although these are more common in type 1 diabetes or severe cases of type 2 diabetes.

Why High Blood Glucose Is Dangerous

Damage to Blood Vessels and Organs High blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time, leading to problems with circulation. This increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues.

Increased Risk of Infections Elevated glucose levels create a favorable environment for bacteria and fungi, making diabetics more susceptible to infections, especially in the skin, gums, and urinary tract.

Nerve Damage (Neuropathy) One of the most common complications of long-term high blood sugar is diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage. This can cause pain, numbness, and tingling, particularly in the legs and feet. Left unchecked, it may lead to foot ulcers and, in severe cases, amputations.

Eye Damage (Retinopathy) Prolonged high blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to vision problems and even blindness. Diabetic retinopathy is a major cause of blindness in adults.

Kidney Damage (Nephropathy) Your kidneys filter waste from your blood, but high glucose levels can damage this filtration system over time. This damage can lead to chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a transplant.

Common symptoms of high blood glucose include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Headaches

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to test your blood sugar immediately. If your levels are above 240 mg/dL, you may also test for ketones (especially if you’re feeling nauseous or have abdominal pain), as this could indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Managing High Blood Glucose Levels

Monitor Regularly: Regularly check your blood sugar levels to ensure they are within the target range. This helps you catch any spikes early before they become problematic.

Stay Active: Physical activity is one of the best ways to lower blood glucose. Even light exercise like walking can help bring down your levels.

Adjust Your Diet: Eating a balanced diet that’s low in processed carbs and sugars is essential for blood glucose control. Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of vegetables.

Medications and Insulin: If you’re prescribed medications or insulin, it’s important to take them as directed by your healthcare provider. These treatments are designed to help keep your blood sugar in a healthy range.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water. High blood sugar can lead to dehydration, and staying hydrated helps your kidneys flush out excess glucose through urine.

Consult your Nutritionist for a personalised lifestyle plan for optimum results

When to Seek Emergency Help

If your blood sugar remains consistently above 300 mg/dL or if you experience symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or confusion), seek medical help immediately. These symptoms can escalate quickly and require emergency care.

High blood sugar is not something to ignore, especially for those living with diabetes. The key to avoiding dangerous levels and complications lies in regular monitoring, healthy lifestyle choices, and adhering to treatment plans. By managing your blood glucose effectively, you can prevent long-term damage and lead a healthier, more active life.