Hyperglycemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Hyperglycemia is a condition where there is excess glucose (sugar) in the blood. It is frequently found in patients with diabetes, though it may also happen to a non-diabetic person under the influence of stress, medications or other health issues. An elevated blood sugar level above the normal range (usually over 130 mg/dL or 7.2 mmol/L) during fasting or (over 180 mg/dL or 10 mmol/L) when ingesting food is the hallmark of hyperglycemia.
When not treated, hyperglycemia may lead to chronic disorders such as nerve damage, kidney disease, vision issues, and cardiovascular disease. Learning about symptoms, causes, and treatment is the most important manner of preventing severe health problems.
Symptoms of Hyperglycemia
The symptoms of hyperglycemia might differ according to the degree and the duration of elevated blood sugar levels. Initial signs could be insignificant, whereas excessive and long-standing high-sugar levels may cause serious complications.
Early Signs and Symptoms
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Increased thirst (polydipsia)
One of the most conspicuous symptoms. To reduce levels of sugar, your body draws water out of tissues.
To remove the extra sugar, your kidneys work hard which makes you have to go to the bathroom more.
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Fatigue
Your main source of energy is glucose. When it is not economically utilized, you get weary.
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Blurred vision
Sugary foods lead to fluid displacement in your eyes and this interferes with your ability to focus.
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Headaches
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Difficulty concentrating
Advanced Symptoms
In case hyperglycemia is not controlled, it can cause:
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Weight loss (despite eating more)
Your body burns muscle and fat as a source of energy.
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Slow-healing wounds
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Dry mouth and skin
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Recurrent infections
In particular urinary tract infection or yeast infections.
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Vomiting or nausea
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Shortness of breath
In severe situations, extreme high blood sugar may cause diabetic ketoacidosis (in type 1 diabetes) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (in type 2 diabetes): these are both medical emergencies.
Causes of Hyperglycemia
It is imperative to know the causes of hyperglycemia to treat or avoid it.
Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
This is the most prevalent predisposing condition to chronic hyperglycemia. In diabetes:
- Type 1: Insulin is produced in small amounts or the body does not produce it.
- Type 2: The body develops insulin resistance or fails to use insulin adequately.
Skipping Medication
Forgetting to take insulin or oral medications may result in rapid increases of glucose levels.
Poor Dietary Choices
- Consumption of large amounts of carbohydrates
- Sugary drinks and snacks
- Overeating, in general
Physical Inactivity
Physical activity makes the body utilize insulin better. Blood sugar levels can increase when there is no activity.
Illness or Infection
When you fall sick, stress hormones are released by your body to combat the disease. The hormones elevate the level of blood sugar.
Stress
Hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline production also raise blood glucose, especially under stressful conditions, whether mental or emotional.
Certain Medications
- Steroids
- Some diuretics
- Antipsychotic medications
These may disrupt the processing of insulin or glucose in your body.
Hormonal Changes
Insulin sensitivity and glucose levels may be affected by puberty, menstruation and menopause.
How Is Hyperglycemia Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose hyperglycemia basing on:
- Fasting blood sugar: Tests the level of glucose after 8 hours of not eating.
- Random blood sugar test: It may be taken any time.
- A1C test: Represents an average of blood glucose in the past 2-3 months.
- Oral glucose tolerance test: It is used frequently during pregnancy to screen gestational diabetes.
Treatments for Hyperglycemia
Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause. This is aimed at normalizing blood sugar and avoiding complications.
Lifestyle Modifications
These are the initial steps which are usually the most effective:
Diet
- Consume balanced meals containing foods with low glycemic index.
- Limit simple sugars and processed carbs.
- Add more vegetables rich in fibres, lean meat, and healthy fat.
Exercise
- Physical exercise (such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, etc.) may reduce blood sugar.
- Even a 15-30 minute walk after meals is effective.
Monitor Blood Sugar Regularly
- Use a glucometer or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to track your levels.
- Keep a record to know what triggers spikes.
Stay Hydrated
- Consumption of water assists in getting rid of the excess sugar by removing it through the urine.
Address Underlying Causes
- Treat infections promptly.
- Use relaxation methods, therapy or medication to manage stress.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Without treatment, hyperglycemia may prove to be deadly. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Inability to retain fluids or vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Fruity-scented breath
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Unconsciousness
It may be indications of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) both of which are medical emergencies.
Prevention Tips
- Make sure that you eat on a regular basis and you eat balanced meals.
- Test your blood sugar routinely.
- Manage stress.
- Stay active.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.
When you have diabetes, it is important to closely collaborate with your health care provider to develop an individualized approach that will help to maintain the level of sugar in your blood at a safe level.
Conclusion
Hyperglycemia is a serious disorder particularly in individuals with diabetes. It occurs when the amount of sugar in the blood rises above normal resulting in symptoms such as thirst, exhaustion and blurred vision, among others, when not treated. It can be a result of diet and stress as well as sedentary lifestyle or ill health. The positive thing is that hyperglycemia is treatable as well as it can be even reversible under the influence of appropriate combinations of lifestyle changes and monitoring.
Knowing the symptoms early, the causes of high blood sugar, how to cure it and prevent it, you may save your life by being healthy and living a better life.
This article is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional and personalized medical advice. Always seek diagnosis and treatment from a qualified healthcare provider, which is specific to your own case.
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