A 156 blood sugar level is high and means you have a problem. A blood sugar level of 156 mg/dL falls in the high range, depending on when you tested it.
If measured after fasting for at least 8 hours, this indicates prediabetes, as normal fasting blood sugar should be below 100 mg/dL, and prediabetes is diagnosed at 100–125 mg/dL.
However, if this reading is from a post-meal (postprandial) test, it may be within an acceptable range, as blood sugar levels can rise to 140–180 mg/dL after eating. Consistently high readings increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other complications, such as nerve damage and heart disease.
This will help you understand what it means, the health risks and what to do.
Blood Sugar Levels
Monitoring blood glucose is key to diabetes management. It’s not just about tracking numbers; it’s about understanding what they mean and how they affect your body. Regular checks will help you know if your levels are in range and make adjustments to your diabetes care plan.
For non-pregnant adults with diabetes, normal blood sugar targets are pre-meal 80-130 mg/dL. Staying within these targets will prevent complications from both high and low blood sugar.
Also an A1C less than 7% is recommended for most adults with diabetes. This measures your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months and is a long term indicator of diabetes management. Here’s your blood sugar chart:
| Condition | Fasting Blood Sugar (mg/dL & mmol/L) | Before Meals (mg/dL & mmol/L) | 1-2 Hours After Meals (mg/dL & mmol/L) | HbA1c (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | 70–99 mg/dL (3.9–5.5 mmol/L) | 70–99 mg/dL (3.9–5.5 mmol/L) | Below 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L) | Below 5.7% |
| Prediabetes | 100–125 mg/dL (5.6–6.9 mmol/L) | 100–125 mg/dL (5.6–6.9 mmol/L) | 140–199 mg/dL (7.8–11.0 mmol/L) | 5.7%–6.4% |
| Diabetes | 126 mg/dL or higher (≥7.0 mmol/L) | 126 mg/dL or higher (≥7.0 mmol/L) | 200 mg/dL or higher (≥11.1 mmol/L) | 6.5% or higher |
| Target for Diabetics (ADA Recommended) | 80–130 mg/dL (4.4–7.2 mmol/L) | 80–130 mg/dL (4.4–7.2 mmol/L) | Below 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L) | Below 7.0% |
| Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) | Below 70 mg/dL (Below 3.9 mmol/L) | Below 70 mg/dL (Below 3.9 mmol/L) | Below 70 mg/dL (Below 3.9 mmol/L) | N/A |
| Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) | Above 130 mg/dL (Above 7.2 mmol/L) | Above 130 mg/dL (Above 7.2 mmol/L) | Above 180 mg/dL (Above 10.0 mmol/L) | N/A |
Is 156 Blood Sugar High?
A 156 blood sugar level is high and is concerning. This is more so if measured 2 hours after meals as it may mean impaired glucose tolerance. Poor blood sugar management can lead to many health problems over time.
If this is during a fasting test, it means poor blood sugar management, may be an early sign of diabetes. Monitor and consult with your doctor to find out the underlying cause and what to do.
What to Do Now
When you see a 156 blood sugar level, consult your doctor for personalized advice based on your overall health and diabetes management plan. Address high blood sugar ASAP to prevent complications.
Use a blood glucose meter to confirm the reading and give your doctor context. Monitor and consult regularly is key to managing diabetes.
Blood Sugar Factors
Several factors affect blood sugar levels, what you eat and how active you are. What you eat and how much you move can either stabilize or spike your glucose levels.
Other factors like stress, illness and medication can also affect your blood sugar. By knowing these factors you can make better decisions and improve your diabetes management.
1. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes like during menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause can affect blood sugar levels. Stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline also raise blood glucose.
2. Sleep Patterns
Sleep quality and duration affects glucose metabolism. Poor sleep or sleep disorders like sleep apnea can disrupt your body’s ability to process glucose and raise blood sugar levels.
Good sleep helps maintain insulin sensitivity and overall diabetes management.
3. Hydration
Hydration helps manage blood sugar. Dehydration can raise blood sugar since proper kidney function regulates sugar levels.
Drink enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
4. Illness and Health Conditions
When you’re sick your body produces hormones to fight the illness and can raise blood sugar levels. Certain medications like steroids and antipsychotics can also raise blood glucose levels.
Physical and emotional stress can trigger hormone release that raises blood sugar.
Check Your Blood Sugar
Monitor your blood sugar regularly to know the pattern and adjust your diabetes management plan. A continuous glucose monitor gives you real time data and reduces the need for frequent finger prick test.
A CGM helps you stay on top of your blood sugar and act fast. Monitoring before and after exercise can give you insight on how your body reacts to different activities.
Key benefits of using a CGM:
- Continuous glucose monitoring throughout the day.
- Immediate alert for high or low glucose levels.
- Less frequent finger prick test.
- Better diabetes management.
Long-Term Implications of High Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar levels over time can lead to serious health complications affecting many organs and systems. That’s why diabetes management is crucial.
For example high blood sugar can damage your kidneys and lead to kidney failure and dialysis. Diabetes also increases the risk of heart problems like heart attack and stroke due to diabetes related complications in the blood vessels.
High blood sugar can also cause vision problems and blindness. Knowing these risks you can take proactive steps to manage your blood sugar and prevent complications.
How to Lower Blood Sugar
Several ways can lower blood sugar. A low carbohydrate meal plan can improve blood sugar control. Regular physical activity can increase insulin sensitivity and regulate glucose levels.
Use fast acting insulin to lower high blood sugar. Consult your doctor for the right dosage and timing.
Tips to lower blood sugar:
- Follow a low carbohydrate meal plan.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Use fast acting insulin when needed.
- Monitor your blood sugar.
- Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Avoid High Blood Sugar Episodes
Avoiding high blood sugar episodes is through dietary management, regular physical activity and consistent monitoring. Knowing portion sizes and food combinations can stabilize blood sugar. Carbohydrate counting can manage insulin doses based on food intake.
Practical tips to avoid high blood sugar episodes:
- Use the plate method for meals.
- Match meal time with insulin timing.
- Limit sugary drinks.
- Prioritize protein and vegetables over carbohydrates.
- Don’t eat late at night.
- Exercise moderately after meals.
- Stay hydrated.
- Monitor your blood sugar.
- Adjust food intake during exercise to prevent hypoglycemia.
These will help you maintain stable blood sugar and prevent low blood sugar complications of diabetes.
My Sugar is 65 mg/dL What should I do ?
A blood sugar level of 65 mg/dL is low, hypoglycemia. Symptoms are weakness, shakiness, sweating, headache, anxiety and low blood sugar symptoms. To raise low blood sugar consume 15 grams of fast acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets or fruit juice during a low blood sugar episode. When severe low blood sugar happens act fast.
If blood sugar doesn’t go up after 15 minutes take another 15 grams of carbohydrates. Always carry a source of fast acting sugar. If symptoms doesn’t improve seek medical attention immediately.
Blood Sugar of 264 mg/dL
A blood sugar level of 264 mg/dL is high and can lead to serious complications if not managed immediately.
High blood sugar can affect:
- eyes
- kidneys
- nerves
- heart
Above 240 there’s a risk of ketones and ketoacidosis.
Immediate action is needed when sugar reaches 264 to prevent further complications. Factors that can cause high blood sugar are: insufficient medication, bad diet and no physical activity.
Blood Glucose Levels 324 mg/dL
A blood glucose level of 324 mg/dL is severe hyperglycemia and can lead to complications if not managed. Above 300 mg/dL immediate medical attention is often recommended to prevent diabetic ketoacidosis. Symptoms are excessive thirst, frequent urination and fatigue.
Monitoring blood sugar regularly is important for those prone to high sugar to avoid emergencies. If sugar levels are high adjust insulin dosage under medical supervision to manage levels and not too much insulin.
When to Get Help
Some symptoms needs immediate medical attention like confusion, nausea and shortness of breath. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life threatening condition caused by high blood sugar characterized by rapid breathing and fruity odor in the breath.
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is another life threatening condition caused by very high blood sugar often leading to severe dehydration and altered mental status. Medical attention is needed if symptoms worsens to confusion, loss of consciousness or signs of dehydration.
If sugar levels are high especially above 240 mg/dL check for ketones in urine.
Lifestyle Changes for Better Diabetes Management
Diabetes management is not just medication; it needs major lifestyle changes. Prolonged high sugar can cause nerve damage and pain, tingling and numbness in extremities. People with diabetes are also more prone to infections and complications due to weak immune system.
A balanced meal plan and regular physical activity can make a big difference. Here are practical lifestyle changes to consider:
- Follow a balanced meal plan with veggies, protein and healthy carbs.
- Do at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week.
- Monitor sugar levels to know the pattern and adjust accordingly.
- Synchronize meal with insulin timing to avoid sugar fluctuations.
- Prioritize sleep and manage stress.
High sugar can also cause digestive issues like constipation and irregular bowel movement. Do these lifestyle changes to manage diabetes and overall health.
Bottom Line
- 156 blood sugar level is high and means impaired glucose tolerance or poor diabetes management.
- Monitor blood sugar levels and low carb diet and exercise is key to managing diabetes.
- Knowing the factors that affect blood sugar such as diet, stress, sleep and hydration can prevent high and low blood sugar episodes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when your glucose is 65?
When your glucose is 65, you’re entering the realm of hypoglycemia, which can make you feel shaky and sweaty. It’s important to address it quickly to avoid further symptoms.
Is 156 mg/dL high?
Yes, a blood sugar level of 156 mg/dL is considered borderline high and may indicate prediabetes. It’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
What is your A1C if your glucose is 156?
If your glucose is 156 mg/dL, your estimated A1C is around 7.2%. That’s a good reference point to keep track of your overall blood sugar levels!
What should I do if my blood sugar level is 156 mg/dL?
If your blood sugar level is 156 mg/dL, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice, and double-check your reading with a blood glucose meter to ensure accuracy. Taking these steps can help you manage your health effectively.
How can I lower my blood sugar levels quickly?
To quickly lower your blood sugar levels, try eating a low-carbohydrate meal and get moving with some exercise. If you’re on insulin, using fast-acting insulin can also help bring those levels down rapidly.
