Blood glucose and hyperglycemia are related terms, but they have distinct meanings when discussing diabetes.
Blood Glucose: Blood glucose refers to the amount of sugar (glucose) present in the bloodstream. Glucose is the primary source of energy for the body's cells and is derived from the food we eat, especially carbohydrates. In a healthy individual, the body regulates blood glucose levels tightly to ensure that it remains within a normal range.
Hyperglycemia: Hyperglycemia is a condition characterized by abnormally high levels of glucose in the blood. It occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to the effects of insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps glucose enter the cells to be used for energy. In diabetes, the absence or insufficient production of insulin leads to an accumulation of glucose in the bloodstream, resulting in hyperglycemia.
In summary, blood glucose is a measure of the sugar content in the blood, while hyperglycemia specifically refers to elevated blood glucose levels beyond the normal range due to a lack of insulin or reduced sensitivity to insulin in diabetic patients. Hyperglycemia is a hallmark feature of diabetes and requires careful management to prevent potential complications. Diabetic patients may regularly monitor their blood glucose levels and take appropriate measures, such as insulin injections or other medications, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes, to maintain blood glucose within a healthy range and avoid hyperglycemia.