When we hear the term blood sugar levels, the first thing that often comes to mind is diabetes, right?

While it’s true that diabetes is a major condition associated with elevated blood sugar levels, it’s not the only cause. There are several other factors that can lead to a rise in blood glucose levels.

Human blood is composed of a variety of cells, nutrients, and enzymes. Along with red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, it also contains essential minerals like iron—and glucose.

The glucose present in our bloodstream is commonly referred to as blood sugar or blood glucose.

Just like we monitor health parameters such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and haemoglobin levels, maintaining a normal blood sugar level is also vital for overall health.

For a healthy individual, normal fasting blood sugar levels (after not eating for at least 8 hours) should be below 100 mg/dL, and post-meal levels (about 2 hours after eating) should be under 140 mg/dL.

These values can fluctuate after eating because the glucose from food directly affects blood sugar levels.

In people with diabetes, however, blood sugar levels are consistently higher than these norms. This is often one of the first signs doctors look for when diagnosing the condition.

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder marked by chronically high blood sugar, typically caused by problems related to the hormone insulin.

So, when someone discovers their blood sugar levels are high, they may instantly assume it’s diabetes. But there are other possible causes too.

Here are some non-diabetic reasons for elevated blood sugar levels:

# Surgery

Major surgeries—especially those involving endocrine organs—can disrupt insulin balance in the body, leading to temporary spikes in blood sugar.

# Pneumonia

This serious lung infection can impair the body’s ability to filter blood properly, which may result in elevated glucose levels.

# Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Infections like UTIs can also impact blood sugar, as the body reacts by increasing glucose levels.

# Certain Medications

Drugs like steroids or diuretics can interfere with insulin production and cause blood sugar to rise.

# Obesity

Excess body fat and a high BMI can lead to hormonal imbalances, which may affect insulin sensitivity and raise blood sugar.

# Feeding Tubes

Individuals who receive nutrition through feeding tubes or intravenous methods may experience high blood sugar if their bodies don’t metabolize the glucose properly.