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Is Blood Sugar Level Of 550 Mg/dl A Cause For Concern?

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Posted on Tue, 28 Jun 2016
Twitter Tue, 28 Jun 2016 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 18 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on
Question : Blood sugar level is 550 ???
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Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (6 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Emergency

Detailed Answer:
You should call 911 and go to the emergency room immediately. Such high blood glucoses are life threatening and require intensive care in ICU, particularly if 'ketones' are positive in the blood.
Ketones indicate the likelihood of DKA (Diabetic Keto Acidosis) or HHS (Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State) which are both complications of running high sugars.
These must treated right away in the hospital with Insulin and hydration while continuously monitoring vital lab tests like bicarbonate, potassium and creatinine
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Shehzad Topiwala

Endocrinologist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 1663 Questions

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Is Blood Sugar Level Of 550 Mg/dl A Cause For Concern?

Brief Answer: Emergency Detailed Answer: You should call 911 and go to the emergency room immediately. Such high blood glucoses are life threatening and require intensive care in ICU, particularly if 'ketones' are positive in the blood. Ketones indicate the likelihood of DKA (Diabetic Keto Acidosis) or HHS (Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State) which are both complications of running high sugars. These must treated right away in the hospital with Insulin and hydration while continuously monitoring vital lab tests like bicarbonate, potassium and creatinine