Is high blood sugar more dangerous than low blood sugar?

Abnormal blood sugar levels, whether high or low, carry potential risks and pose serious threats to health; however, their harmful effects and urgency differ.

1. High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) causes long-term, chronic damage to the body. When left uncontrolled for prolonged periods, it can easily lead to various chronic complications, such as gradual vascular damage, which may result in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. These complications develop slowly and usually take a long time before their damaging effects become apparent, but the consequences are severe and cannot be ignored.

2. The dangers of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), on the other hand, are more rapid and direct. Compared to hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia can cause brain damage within a short time, often presenting acutely and quickly becoming life-threatening. The brain requires a continuous supply of glucose to maintain its function, and during hypoglycemia, brain function rapidly deteriorates, potentially causing irreversible damage.

Therefore, it cannot be simply concluded that one type of blood sugar abnormality is more dangerous than the other; both require strict management and timely treatment. For individuals with blood sugar disorders, it is important to strive to maintain blood glucose levels within the normal range and prevent episodes of abnormal blood sugar. If any physical discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is advised.