Blood glucose levels are what help people with diabetes gauge the health of their condition and whether or not they need to administer insulin, take other medication, or seek medical attention. They are often times the best, if not the only indicators of the type of diabetes they have as well. By knowing this, people with diabetes can target treatment more finely and improve their lifelong condition.

Blood glucose levels are typically measured through a number of tests using small blood samples. A finger is pricked to produce a drop of blood that is typically enough to obtain an accurate blood glucose reading. Test strips are used to blot the blood sample and plug into a glucose monitor for a result of one's blood sugar levels.

Normal blood glucose levels vary based on a number of factors. These include the amount of time you've lived with diabetes, age and life expectancy, and other health conditions. That being said, most normal blood glucose levels will range between 70-125 mg/dL, but even then, this could vary based on your meal and bed times. According to the American Diabetes Association, normal blood glucose levels should range somewhere around:

• 70-130 mg/dL before meals or while fasting
• Less than 180 mg/dL after two hours since the start of a meal

To find out for sure what your normal blood glucose levels are, speak with your physician or dietitian who can help you determine blood glucose ranges according to your individual health and lifestyle patterns.

Managing Blood Glucose Control

Managing blood glucose levels comprises a significant portion of the diabetic lifestyle. Most people with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes go through random blood sugar checks throughout the day to make sure blood sugar levels are stable. This is often done by carrying a small kit of test strips, a glucose monitor, and lancets to take blood sugar samples on the go.

Hyperglycemia

If your blood sugar is too high, it could lead to hyperglycemia. This condition is a major cause of complications with diabetes, but it still tends to happen from time to time. It mostly occurs when the body has too little insulin (Type 1) or isn't using it properly (Type 2). Other symptoms of hyperglycemia include:

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst
• Urine samples with high sugar readings

To combat the onset of hyperglycemia, exercise regularly. If your blood sugar is above 240 mg/dL, test for ketones. If it comes back positive, refrain from exercising and seek a physician's input on treatment for regaining blood glucose control. Other ways to treat hyperglycemia are to cut back on food intake and make dietary choices easier and more beneficial.

Hypoglycemia

Conversely, hypoglycemia is when the blood glucose levels are too low. Sometimes referred to as an insulin reaction, it also flares up randomly, even when you have been managing your diabetes fairly well and haven't experienced major problems. Some symptoms include:

• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Hunger
• Headaches
• Confusion
• Tingling sensation around mouth

To stop hypoglycemia from occurring, it must be treated immediately. Not doing so could lead to fainting and possibly an emergency room situation. To combat this, consume some form of sugar to boost blood glucose levels and stabilize them. Fruit juice and crackers that have low amounts of fats and carbohydrates are ideal, as they provide quick fixes without overloading on harmful elements.

Measuring and monitoring blood sugar levels are an integral in keeping diabetes in check and your health in optimal condition. Because they can vary slightly based on individual health and lifestyle factors, it's important to receive a professional analysis by speaking with a physician or certified dietitian for more information on your blood glucose levels.