Blood Sugar Levels: Impact of Illness and Sleep on Results

Q: Blood Sugar Levels: Impact of Illness and Sleep on Results

Hello, I would like to respond as follows： <br>1. <br>A fasting plasma glucose level between 100-125 mg/dL is referred to as impaired fasting glucose; a two-hour plasma glucose level between 140-199 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance test is referred to as impaired glucose to

Elevated blood sugar levels?

I previously had a health check-up where my fasting blood sugar was 100, and I was advised to undergo a glucose tolerance test.
The results showed a fasting blood sugar of 105 (which the doctor said is normal) and a postprandial blood sugar of 136 (with the standard being 80-120).
The doctor recommended exercise and dietary control.
I have check-ups every six months, but I want to ask if my blood sugar could be affected since my daughter had a fever the day before, and I didn't get much sleep.
Should I undergo another test?

Zi Se, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/06/30

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Hello, I would like to respond as follows:
1.
A fasting plasma glucose level between 100-125 mg/dL is referred to as impaired fasting glucose; a two-hour plasma glucose level between 140-199 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance test is referred to as impaired glucose tolerance.
These two conditions are collectively known as prediabetes, representing a transitional phase between normal glucose metabolism and diabetes.
Clinically, they are often associated with risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, hyperinsulinemia, and obesity.
2.
Therefore, it is crucial to begin paying attention to regular and moderate exercise, controlling dietary intake, and reducing the consumption of high-sugar and high-fat foods.
This can help prevent further deterioration.
If there are accompanying risk factors mentioned above, it is advisable to treat and manage them together for better outcomes.
3.
Following up with a re-evaluation after six months, based on the information you provided, is reasonable.
4.
Insufficient sleep or excessive stress can lead to hormonal changes in the body, which may result in elevated blood glucose levels.
However, it is not appropriate to attribute this abnormality solely to lack of sleep.
A comprehensive assessment of overall bodily functions remains the most important.
5.
It is recommended to further discuss these matters with your primary care physician.

Reply Date: 2008/06/30

More Info

When it comes to understanding blood sugar levels, several factors can significantly influence the results, including illness, sleep patterns, and lifestyle choices. In your case, you mentioned that your fasting blood sugar was 100 mg/dL, and after a glucose tolerance test, your fasting blood sugar was 105 mg/dL, with a postprandial (after meal) blood sugar of 136 mg/dL. These readings indicate that you are in a prediabetic state, which is characterized by blood sugar levels that are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes.

1. Impact of Illness on Blood Sugar Levels: Illness can lead to increased stress on the body, which often results in elevated blood sugar levels. When you are sick, your body releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can increase insulin resistance, making it harder for your body to utilize glucose effectively. In your case, since your daughter was ill and you experienced a lack of sleep, it is plausible that these factors could have contributed to a temporary rise in your blood sugar levels.
2. Effect of Sleep on Blood Sugar: Sleep deprivation can also have a significant impact on blood sugar regulation. Lack of sleep can lead to hormonal imbalances, including increased levels of cortisol and decreased levels of insulin sensitivity. Studies have shown that individuals who do not get enough sleep may experience higher fasting blood glucose levels and impaired glucose tolerance. Therefore, your insufficient sleep due to caring for your sick daughter could have influenced your blood sugar readings.

3. Should You Retest?: Given that your blood sugar levels are already in the prediabetic range, it is essential to monitor them closely. While the temporary factors of illness and sleep deprivation may have affected your recent readings, it is still advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend retesting your blood sugar levels after a period of adequate sleep and health to get a clearer picture of your glucose metabolism. Regular monitoring is crucial, especially since you are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Your doctor has already advised you to focus on exercise and dietary control, which are critical steps in managing blood sugar levels. Engaging in regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, adopting a balanced diet that is low in refined sugars and high in fiber can further support your efforts in maintaining healthy blood glucose levels.

5. Conclusion: In summary, both illness and lack of sleep can significantly impact blood sugar levels. Given your current prediabetic status and the recent factors affecting your health, it would be prudent to discuss with your healthcare provider about the possibility of retesting your blood sugar levels after you have had adequate rest and are feeling well. This will help ensure that you have an accurate assessment of your glucose metabolism and can take the necessary steps to manage your health effectively. Remember, proactive management through lifestyle changes and regular monitoring can help prevent the progression to diabetes.

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