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In type 2 diabetes, the body struggles to maintain normal glucose levels, and over time, persistently high blood sugar can start causing subtle damage long before symptoms appear. So, when a Quora user asked, ‘At what blood sugar levels does damage start occurring in type 2 diabetes?’, we decided to gather insights from an expert.
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Dr Pranav Ghody, consultant endocrinologist and diabetologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, said clinically, damage begins when blood sugar consistently rises above the normal range; fasting glucose over 100 mg/dL and post-meal (2 hours after eating) over 140 mg/dL are considered early warning signs.
“However, the risk of organ and tissue damage becomes significant when fasting glucose exceeds 126 mg/dL or HbA1c levels are above 6.5 per cent, which is the threshold for diagnosing diabetes,” said Dr Ghody.
Here’s a snapshot of the question on Quora (Photo: Quora)
What kind of damage are we talking about?
High blood sugar gradually affects multiple organs. Dr Ghody said that it can harm small blood vessels, leading to retinopathy (eye damage), nephropathy (kidney damage), and neuropathy (nerve damage). “Large vessels may also get affected, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease. Importantly, this damage often develops silently over years, which is why regular monitoring is critical even if you feel well,” said Dr Ghody.
Does occasional high sugar cause harm?
Occasional spikes, such as after a heavy meal or stress, generally do not cause permanent damage. “It is the persistent elevation that is dangerous. Regular monitoring, lifestyle modification, and timely treatment help prevent long-term complications,” said Dr Ghody.
How can one minimise risk?
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Maintaining blood sugar within target ranges, following a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and adhering to medications are key. “Regular check-ups, including HbA1c every 3–6 months, help track overall control. For those newly diagnosed or at risk, early intervention can prevent or significantly slow organ damage,” said Dr Ghody.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any ro
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