A "bad blood level" generally refers to blood glucose levels that are outside of the healthy range. Specifically, hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is considered a bad blood level, and it indicates a potential problem with how your body uses sugar.
Hyperglycemia Explained
According to the provided reference, for someone not previously diagnosed with diabetes:
- Fasting blood glucose over 125 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) is considered hyperglycemia. This means your blood sugar is too high when you haven't eaten for at least eight hours.
- Fasting blood glucose between 100 mg/dL and 125 mg/dL is considered prediabetes, which is a stage before developing diabetes, and is also concerning.
Here's a table summarizing these levels:
| Blood Glucose Level (Fasting) | Condition |
|---|---|
| Below 100 mg/dL | Normal |
| 100-125 mg/dL | Prediabetes |
| Above 125 mg/dL | Hyperglycemia |
Why is Hyperglycemia a Bad Blood Level?
High blood sugar levels, if prolonged, can have several adverse effects on your body:
- Damage to blood vessels: This can lead to problems with the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.
- Increased risk of infections: High blood sugar can weaken the immune system.
- Long-term complications: These can include cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, blindness, and foot problems.
Identifying a Bad Blood Level
It's important to recognize that "bad" blood levels for blood sugar are those that are above what's considered healthy. People with diagnosed diabetes will have different target ranges, usually monitored by a physician.
- Check with your Doctor: If you have any questions about your blood glucose levels or what is normal for your situation, consult your doctor. They can provide you with personalized information.
- Regular monitoring If you are at high risk for diabetes or prediabetes, regularly monitor your blood sugar and take action if necessary.
- Healthy lifestyle: Make positive changes to your lifestyle, including diet, exercise, and weight management, to help you maintain healthy blood glucose levels.
In conclusion, a bad blood level, particularly for glucose, is a blood sugar level that exceeds what is considered healthy. For fasting blood glucose, exceeding 125 mg/dL in undiagnosed individuals signals hyperglycemia. If you're concerned about your blood glucose, consult your doctor immediately.
