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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Are Fluctuating Blood Sugar Levels Post Prednisone Intake A Cause For Conern?

I m 64 years old, 285lb woman. Not on any disbetic meds. Bs levels usually within high end of normal range. I m currently on 500mg cephalexin & 20mg prednisone due to suspected parotid gland infection. Experiencing headaches & not feeling right . Tested blood sugar this morning (fasting). It was 97. Now at 12:15pm bs is 171 after eating. I know prednisone raises blood sugar. Am I in danger right now?
Tue, 16 Feb 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic

Blood sugar is assessed using fasting and 2 hour readings.
The HbAic is also used to determine blood sugar control but this is based on readings over at least 6 weeks to 3 months.

A normal fasting is between 70 to 99 and the 2 hour should be less than 140.

If the post lunch was done prior to 2 hours, this would be the reason it is a bit high. If it was done after 2 hours, then it is in the pred diabetic range, not diabetic.
You are not in immediate danger at this point

Prednisone and infections (because of the body's stress response) can cause an increase, so you need to recheck when you well.

I hope this helps
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Are Fluctuating Blood Sugar Levels Post Prednisone Intake A Cause For Conern?

Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic Blood sugar is assessed using fasting and 2 hour readings. The HbAic is also used to determine blood sugar control but this is based on readings over at least 6 weeks to 3 months. A normal fasting is between 70 to 99 and the 2 hour should be less than 140. If the post lunch was done prior to 2 hours, this would be the reason it is a bit high. If it was done after 2 hours, then it is in the pred diabetic range, not diabetic. You are not in immediate danger at this point Prednisone and infections (because of the body s stress response) can cause an increase, so you need to recheck when you well. I hope this helps