Overview

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of hyperglycemia or diabetes involves setting and monitoring your target blood sugar range. Your healthcare provider will help determine this range based on your age, medical history, and other health conditions.

For many people with diabetes, target blood sugar levels before meals may include:

  • 80 to 120 mg/dL (4.4 to 6.7 mmol/L) for individuals under 60 with no additional medical issues.

  • 100 to 140 mg/dL (5.6 to 7.8 mmol/L) for people aged 60 and older, or those with conditions such as heart, lung, or kidney disease, or a history of low blood sugar.

According to the American Diabetes Association, general target blood sugar levels are:

  • 80 to 130 mg/dL (4.4 to 7.2 mmol/L) before meals.

  • Less than 180 mg/dL (10 mmol/L) two hours after meals.

These targets may vary based on factors such as pregnancy, other health complications, or age-related changes.

Home blood sugar monitoring
Routine blood sugar monitoring using a glucose meter is essential to ensure your treatment plan is effective. Check your levels as often as your healthcare provider recommends.

If symptoms of severe hyperglycemia appear, check your blood sugar immediately. If it is 240 mg/dL (13.3 mmol/L) or higher, use a urine ketones test kit. A positive test could indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, which requires medical attention.

Hemoglobin A1C test
Your healthcare provider may perform an A1C test, which measures your average blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months.

  • An A1C level of 7% or less suggests your treatment plan is effective.

  • A level higher than 7% means your blood sugar has been above the target range.

  • For older adults or those with other medical conditions, a higher goal such as 8% may be acceptable.

Most people with diabetes should have this test 2 to 4 times a year, depending on how well their blood sugar is managed.

Treatment

Managing hyperglycemia involves keeping your blood sugar within your target range through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring.

Home treatment options include:

  • Get regular physical activity. Exercise helps lower blood sugar but should be avoided if ketones are present in your urine.

  • Take medications as prescribed. Your provider may adjust your dosage or timing if high blood sugar occurs frequently.

  • Follow your diabetes eating plan. Focus on smaller portions, limit sugary beverages, and reduce snacking. Seek support from a dietitian if needed.

  • Check your blood sugar regularly. Monitor more frequently when you’re ill or concerned about severe blood sugar fluctuations.

  • Adjust insulin doses if needed. Short-acting insulin supplements may be used temporarily to correct high blood sugar levels.

Emergency treatment for severe hyperglycemia
If diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state develops, hospital treatment may be required. Emergency management includes:

  • Fluid replacement through intravenous (IV) fluids to restore hydration and dilute excess sugar.

  • Electrolyte replacement to stabilize minerals in the blood that support muscle, heart, and nerve function.

  • Insulin therapy administered through a vein to stop ketone buildup and restore normal blood sugar levels.

Once stabilized, your healthcare provider will assess potential causes of severe hyperglycemia and recommend further evaluation or adjustments to your treatment plan.

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