Blood sugar, or glucose, is the body’s primary energy source, derived from the foods we consume. Maintaining balanced blood sugar levels is important for overall health, as glucose fuels the brain, muscles, and other cells. The body regulates these levels through hormones like insulin, which helps transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells.
Understanding 170 mg/dL
A blood sugar reading of 170 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) indicates a level higher than what is typically considered normal, and its significance depends on when the measurement was taken. For context, normal fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels are generally below 100 mg/dL. A fasting blood sugar between 100 mg/dL and 125 mg/dL is categorized as prediabetes. A fasting level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes. Therefore, a fasting blood sugar reading of 170 mg/dL falls within the range considered indicative of diabetes.
If this reading was taken as a random plasma glucose (RPG) test, a level below 140 mg/dL is considered normal. A random reading of 200 mg/dL or higher, especially with symptoms, suggests diabetes. A 170 mg/dL random reading is above normal but below the typical diabetes threshold for random measurements, still warranting attention.
During an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), a 2-hour post-load reading below 140 mg/dL is considered normal. A reading between 140 mg/dL and 199 mg/dL suggests prediabetes. A 2-hour OGTT result of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes. Consequently, a 170 mg/dL reading during a 2-hour OGTT places it within the prediabetes range.
Factors Influencing Blood Sugar Readings
Blood sugar levels can fluctuate throughout the day due to various factors. Diet plays a significant role, particularly the amount and type of carbohydrates consumed, as these are broken down into glucose. Physical activity also impacts blood sugar; exercise generally helps lower glucose levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and burning sugar for energy. However, intense workouts can sometimes temporarily raise blood sugar due to the release of stress hormones.
Stress, both physical (like illness or injury) and emotional, can lead to increased blood sugar levels as the body releases hormones that cause the liver to release more glucose. Certain medications can also influence blood sugar, including corticosteroids, some diuretics, and beta-blockers. Other factors like dehydration, menstrual periods, and even extreme temperatures or sunburn can affect glucose readings.
Different Types of Blood Sugar Measurements
Several types of blood sugar tests are used to assess glucose levels, each providing different information.
Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) test
A Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) test measures blood sugar after an overnight fast, typically 8 hours. Normal FPG is below 100 mg/dL, prediabetes is 100-125 mg/dL, and diabetes is 126 mg/dL or higher.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) involves taking a fasting blood sample, then drinking a sugary solution, and subsequently measuring blood sugar at specific intervals, commonly two hours later. A 2-hour post-load reading below 140 mg/dL is considered normal, 140-199 mg/dL suggests prediabetes, and 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
Random Plasma Glucose (RPG) test
A Random Plasma Glucose (RPG) test can be performed at any time, regardless of when food was last consumed. A level below 140 mg/dL is considered normal, while 200 mg/dL or higher, especially with symptoms, suggests diabetes.
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test
The Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test provides an average blood sugar level over the past two to three months by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin in red blood cells that is coated with sugar. A normal HbA1c is below 5.7%, prediabetes is 5.7% to 6.4%, and diabetes is 6.5% or higher.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
If an individual records a blood sugar reading of 170 mg/dL, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable for proper evaluation and guidance. A fasting blood sugar reading of 170 mg/dL, in particular, is a strong indicator of diabetes and warrants immediate medical attention. Similarly, if a 2-hour OGTT result is 170 mg/dL, it signals prediabetes, suggesting lifestyle modifications and regular monitoring are necessary to prevent progression to type 2 diabetes.
Repeated high readings, even if random, should prompt a discussion with a doctor. Individuals should also seek medical advice if a 170 mg/dL reading is accompanied by symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, or fatigue. These symptoms can indicate hyperglycemia.
Furthermore, those with pre-existing risk factors for diabetes, such as a family history, being overweight, or being 45 or older, should discuss any elevated readings with their healthcare provider.