Blood sugar, also known as blood glucose, refers to the amount of sugar (glucose) present in your bloodstream. Glucose is a crucial source of energy for cells and tissues in the body, and its levels are regulated by the hormone insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. Here are some key points about blood sugar:

1. Normal Blood Sugar Levels: For most adults, normal blood sugar levels typically range between 70 and 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) before meals (fasting blood sugar) and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after eating (postprandial blood sugar).

2. Monitoring Blood Sugar: Blood sugar levels can be monitored using a glucometer, which measures glucose levels from a small blood sample obtained by pricking the finger. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems are also available for continuous monitoring throughout the day.

3. Factors Affecting Blood Sugar: Several factors can influence blood sugar levels, including diet, physical activity, stress, medications, illness, and hormonal changes. Managing these factors is important for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

4. Diabetes and Blood Sugar Levels: In diabetes, blood sugar levels can become elevated due to insufficient insulin production (type 1 diabetes) or insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes). Chronically high blood sugar levels can lead to complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and eye problems.

5. Hyperglycemia: Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels, typically above 180 mg/dL. Symptoms of hyperglycemia may include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow wound healing.

6. Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low, usually below 70 mg/dL. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include shakiness, sweating, dizziness, confusion, and irritability. Prompt treatment with fast-acting carbohydrates is essential to raise blood sugar levels.

7. Managing Blood Sugar Levels: For individuals with diabetes, managing blood sugar levels involves a combination of medication (such as insulin or oral medications), healthy eating, regular physical activity, blood sugar monitoring, and lifestyle modifications.

It’s important for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of diabetes to work closely with healthcare providers to monitor blood sugar levels, develop a personalized diabetes management plan, and reduce the risk of complications associated with high or low blood sugar levels.