Elevated blood sugar levels, also known as hyperglycemia, can have serious consequences on your health if left untreated. When your blood sugar levels rise to 240 after eating, it is important to take immediate action to lower them to a safe range. In this article, we will discuss the risks associated with elevated blood sugar levels and what happens at 240 after eating.
Blood sugar levels are typically measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). A normal blood sugar level is considered to be less than 100 mg/dL when fasting and less than 140 mg/dL two hours after eating. When blood sugar levels rise above these levels, it can lead to a variety of health problems.
One of the primary risks of elevated blood sugar levels is damage to the blood vessels and nerves throughout the body. When blood sugar levels are consistently high, it can lead to the formation of plaques in the blood vessels, which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Elevated blood sugar levels can also damage the nerves, leading to a condition known as neuropathy, which can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet.
In addition to cardiovascular and nerve damage, elevated blood sugar levels can also have a significant impact on your eyesight. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. This condition can cause vision loss and even blindness if left untreated.
Furthermore, elevated blood sugar levels can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. High blood sugar levels can also lead to kidney damage, as the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood. When blood sugar levels are consistently high, it can put a strain on the kidneys and lead to kidney disease.
So, what exactly happens at 240 after eating? When blood sugar levels reach 240 mg/dL after eating, it is considered to be very high and can lead to a condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes that occurs when the body does not have enough insulin to use glucose for energy.
When blood sugar levels are high, the body begins to break down fat for energy instead. This process produces ketones, which are acidic byproducts that can build up in the blood and urine, leading to a condition known as ketoacidosis. Symptoms of DKA can include excessive thirst, frequent urination, confusion, nausea, and vomiting.
If left untreated, DKA can lead to dehydration, coma, and even death. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of DKA, especially if your blood sugar levels are above 240 after eating.
To lower blood sugar levels and prevent complications, it is important to follow a healthy lifestyle and properly manage your diabetes. This includes monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and taking medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
In conclusion, elevated blood sugar levels can have serious consequences on your health if left untreated. When blood sugar levels reach 240 after eating, it is important to take immediate action to lower them to a safe range and prevent complications. By properly managing your diabetes and following a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce the risks associated with elevated blood sugar levels and maintain good overall health.
