High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia or high glucose, is a primary complication of diabetes. When excessive amounts of glucose linger in the body too long, damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes and kidneys may result, increasing your risk for serious conditions and disease. Understanding the warning signs of high blood sugar can help you take proper steps to reverse your symptoms and seek medical attention, when necessary.
Tiredness
Since the body can't use glucose for energy, hyperglycemia can cause extreme tiredness and physical lethargy. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), people with type 1 diabetes who have not administered appropriate amounts of insulin may develop high blood sugar. If you eat more or exercise less than you planned, your blood sugar may increase in response, leading to exceptional tiredness. If you observe more tiredness than usual, check your blood sugar levels. If you have not been diagnosed with diabetes, but suspect high blood sugar as the cause of your lethargy, seek guidance from your doctor.
Frequent Urination
When blood sugars increase, the volume and frequency of your urination may also increase. According to the Nemours Foundation, the kidneys react to high glucose levels by flushing out excess glucose through urine. If you have diabetes and find yourself running more frequently to the restroom or urinating at greater volume than you are accustomed to, monitor your blood sugar levels more closely and discuss potential solutions with your doctor. Frequent urination can serve as an initial symptom of diabetes, prior to diagnosis. If you notice this symptom and suspect a blood sugar disturbance, seek guidance from your doctor. Though high blood sugar can occur without diabetes present, the two commonly co-exist.
Increased Thirst or Dry Mouth
Increased thirst may occur in response to high blood sugar, as fluids are flushed from the body through urine. If in addition to thirst, if your mouth becomes excessively dry, your symptoms may indicate a serious, life-threatening complication known as ketoacidosis (diabetic coma). Additional symptoms of this condition include fruity-smelling breath, shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting. If you observe signs of ketoacidosis, seek immediate medical attention.
According to the ADA, your best means or preventing hyperglycemia include consistent monitoring of your blood sugar levels and recognizing signs of high blood sugar when they arise. For best results, ask your doctor how often you should check your glucose levels and discuss further means of maintaining proper balance. A healthy dietary lifestyle, as designated by your doctor or dietitian, and following all prescribed treatment can help promote your overall wellness and keep your blood sugar levels in check.
