From the Guidelines
A fasting blood sugar level of 164 mg/dL is indicative of diabetes, as it exceeds the diagnostic threshold of 126 mg/dL, and prompt consultation with a healthcare provider is necessary for proper evaluation and treatment. According to the most recent guidelines and recommendations for laboratory analysis in the diagnosis and management of diabetes mellitus 1, a fasting glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher is diagnostic of diabetes. This elevated blood sugar level is concerning because chronic hyperglycemia can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, heart, and other organs.
Key Considerations
- Lifestyle modifications are essential, including a balanced diet low in refined carbohydrates, regular physical activity (aim for 150 minutes weekly), and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Medications such as metformin (typically starting at 500 mg once or twice daily) or other diabetes medications may be prescribed depending on overall health 1.
- Regular blood glucose monitoring is necessary, with a target fasting glucose below 130 mg/dL.
- Additional supportive measures, such as drinking plenty of water, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress, can help improve glucose control.
Management and Treatment
The management of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes should be patient-centered, taking into account the individual's specific needs and circumstances 1. This may involve a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and regular monitoring to achieve optimal glucose control and prevent complications. It is crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan and make adjustments as needed to ensure the best possible outcomes.
From the Research
Significance of Fasting Blood Sugar Level
A fasting blood sugar level of 164 indicates hyperglycemia, which is a common phenomenon in individuals with diabetes mellitus 2. This condition can be attributed to various factors, including inadequate or inappropriate hepatic insulinization, the dawn phenomenon, or the Somogyi effect 2.
Risks Associated with Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia is associated with an increased risk of microvascular and macrovascular complications, even brief periods of hyperglycemia can increase the risk of complications 2. Additionally, chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes is associated with long-term micro- and macrovascular as well as neurological complications 3.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of diabetes is established on criteria such as a fasting plasma glucose ≥ 126 mg/dl, and prediabetes is defined by a fasting plasma glucose between 100 and 125 mg/dl 3. Treatment strategies for type 2 diabetes include the use of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in combination with other oral antidiabetic drugs for early and aggressive management of hyperglycemia 4.
Monitoring Glycemic Control
HbA1c has been used to monitor glycemic control in patients with diabetes, but estimated average glucose (eAG) is now recommended for expression of blood glucose control and communication with patients and health care providers 5. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) has been investigated as an indicator of overall chronic blood sugar control, and a moderate and significant positive correlation between FBS and eAG has been found 5.
Key Points
- A fasting blood sugar level of 164 indicates hyperglycemia, which is associated with an increased risk of complications 2, 3.
- Hyperglycemia can be attributed to various factors, including inadequate or inappropriate hepatic insulinization, the dawn phenomenon, or the Somogyi effect 2.
- Treatment strategies for type 2 diabetes include the use of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in combination with other oral antidiabetic drugs 4.
- Fasting blood sugar may be helpful for daily monitoring of diabetes, but further studies are needed to support its use as an indicator of long-term overall control of type 2 diabetes patients 5.