Diabetes and Blood Pressure: Key Values and Assessments

Q: Diabetes and Blood Pressure: Key Values and Assessments

Dear Mr. <br>Gong Yushi,<br>First, I would like to provide you with the normal values for blood glucose levels： fasting blood glucose (AC Glucose) should be <100 mg/dL, and postprandial blood glucose (PC Glucose) should be <140 mg/dL two hours after eating. <br>The normal range f

Standards and Assessment of Normal Values for Diabetes Mellitus

Hello Dr.
Lin,
I have mild hypertension symptoms, typically fluctuating between 118 and 152 (with occasional spikes).
Most of the time, it ranges from 130 to 150.
I do not have a good medication adherence habit and often forget to take my antihypertensive medications.
In mid-last month, I suddenly experienced chest tightness and irregular heartbeats, sometimes feeling short of breath, which was quite uncomfortable.
I visited a clinic near my home for a check-up.
After a series of tests, including blood tests, X-rays, and an echocardiogram, the doctor mentioned signs of left ventricular hypertrophy.
The blood test results indicated some signs of diabetes, and I was advised to fast and retest my blood.

The test report (produced by a medical laboratory) is as follows:
Biochemistry - 1
Fasting Blood Glucose (NaF) H 112 (red) mg/dl 70 -
Postprandial Blood Glucose ( " ) H 137 (red) " <120
HbA1c Glycated Hemoglobin H 6.3 (red) % of Hb 4.0-6.0
This report suggests I have mild or borderline diabetes, which the doctor explained kindly.
I was advised to pay attention to my diet, control my food intake, and not eat too much rice (prior to the tests, I was eating one and a half bowls for lunch and dinner, but the doctor suggested I reduce it to half a bowl and eat slowly.
Will that be enough to feel full?).

Now, I am curious and sought further information online through "Knowledge+" and found that the normal range for fasting blood glucose is 90-250, postprandial blood glucose is 120-140, and the standard for HbA1c is 6-7.
I am somewhat confused about which information is correct.
Do I have diabetes? (I do not smoke or drink and enjoy exercising with a normal lifestyle.)
I would greatly appreciate your guidance and clarification on this matter.
I look forward to your prompt response! Thank you!

Gong Yu Shi, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/11/08

Dr. Lin Jixiong reply Cardiology

Dear Mr.
Gong Yushi,
First, I would like to provide you with the normal values for blood glucose levels: fasting blood glucose (AC Glucose) should be <100 mg/dL, and postprandial blood glucose (PC Glucose) should be <140 mg/dL two hours after eating.
The normal range for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is 4.0-6.0%.

The diagnostic criteria for diabetes are as follows:
1.
HbA1c ≥ 6.5%
2.
Fasting plasma glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL
3.
Symptoms of hyperglycemia (including polyuria, polydipsia, and weight loss) with random plasma glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL
4.
Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) with plasma glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL at the 2-hour mark; a second confirmatory test is required for diagnosis.
Based on your current fasting blood glucose of 112 mg/dL, postprandial blood glucose of 137 mg/dL, and HbA1c of 6.3%, you are at a higher risk for diabetes due to elevated fasting blood glucose levels.
I recommend that you visit a metabolic specialist for further evaluation or monitoring.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Lin Jixiong,
Cardiology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2012/11/08

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It's great that you're taking an active interest in your health, and I’m here to help clarify your situation.

Based on the information you provided, it appears that you are experiencing symptoms of mild hypertension and have received some concerning blood sugar results. Your blood pressure readings, which fluctuate between 118 to 152 mmHg, indicate that you may have hypertension, especially if these readings are consistently above 130/80 mmHg. The American Heart Association defines high blood pressure (hypertension) as a reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher. It's essential to monitor your blood pressure regularly, and if you find that it remains elevated, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider about starting a medication regimen.

Regarding your blood sugar levels, your fasting blood glucose of 112 mg/dL and postprandial (after meal) blood glucose of 137 mg/dL, along with a hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 6.3%, suggest that you are in the prediabetic range. According to the American Diabetes Association, a fasting blood glucose level of 100 to 125 mg/dL is classified as prediabetes, while an HbA1c of 5.7% to 6.4% also indicates prediabetes. Your values fall within these ranges, which means you are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes if lifestyle changes are not made.

It's important to note that the normal ranges for blood glucose can vary slightly depending on the source. Generally, a fasting blood glucose level should be below 100 mg/dL, and a postprandial level should ideally be below 140 mg/dL. Your fasting level of 112 mg/dL is indeed elevated, and your postprandial level of 137 mg/dL is also above the recommended threshold. The HbA1c level of 6.3% indicates that your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months have been higher than normal.

Your doctor’s advice to monitor your diet is crucial. Eating smaller portions, as suggested, can help manage your blood sugar levels. It’s also beneficial to focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Regular physical activity is equally important; aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week, such as brisk walking or cycling.

In terms of your symptoms, such as chest tightness and irregular heartbeats, these could be related to anxiety, high blood pressure, or even the onset of heart disease, especially given the mention of heart enlargement. It’s essential to follow up with your healthcare provider regarding these symptoms, as they may require further evaluation, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram.

In summary, your current blood pressure and blood sugar levels indicate that you are at risk for hypertension and prediabetes. It is crucial to adopt lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and increased physical activity, to help manage these conditions. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will also be important to monitor your progress and adjust your management plan as needed.

Please take care, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance and support. Your health is a priority, and taking these steps now can significantly impact your long-term well-being.

Similar Q&A

Managing High Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure: Daily Health Tips

Hello Doctor: My father recently underwent a health check-up and his blood sugar level was found to be elevated at 119 mg/dL. Additionally, his blood pressure readings showed a systolic pressure of 175 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg; however, he usually measures a norma...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
Hello: In response to your questions: 1. A fasting blood glucose level of 119 mg/dL raises clinical suspicion for potential impaired glucose tolerance. It is advisable to consult your family physician for further evaluation to gain a deeper understanding of your condition. ...

Dietary Guidelines for Managing Diabetes, Hypertension, and Kidney Disease

My mother-in-law has diabetes, hypertension, and kidney disease. How should we manage her diet?

Dr. Zeng Wenyi reply Nutrition
I apologize! I recently learned about this website from a colleague and was unable to respond in a timely manner; I am truly sorry! Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by the body's reduced ability to utilize carbohydrates, leading to elevated blood glucos...

Understanding the Link Between Hypertension and Diabetes Risks

Hello, doctor. I have primary hypertension, and whenever I read health-related books, I often see that diabetes can easily lead to high blood pressure. My question is, conversely, can high blood pressure also increase the likelihood of developing diabetes? (My waist circumference...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, there is no theory suggesting that hypertension causes diabetes, so please don't worry. Just maintain your body shape and exercise regularly. Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Understanding High Blood Pressure: Essential Tests to Identify Causes

Hello Doctor: I have a slim build and I exercise regularly, but I have consistently high blood pressure, which has recently increased to 150/100 (heart rate 67). I recently went to the hospital for tests on triglycerides, total cholesterol, and fasting glucose, and all these valu...

Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology
Hypertension is influenced by multiple factors, including constitution, age, occupation, stress, lifestyle, exercise habits, and dietary conditions. Additionally, the presence of other health factors, such as blood glucose levels, kidney function abnormalities, or other specific ...