High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) occurs when the body has too little insulin or can't efficiently use the insulin it has. Though most anyone can experience high blood sugar, it is most commonly associated with diabetes. Long-term or untreated high blood sugar can lead to numerous serious complications. To learn ways to manage your blood sugar properly, seek guidance from your doctor.
Neuropathy (Nerve Damage)
Neuropathy, also known as nerve damage, causes numbness, tingling, painful or burning sensations in the hands and feet. Traumatic injuries, infections and metabolic problems can trigger neuropathy. However, diabetes is the most common cause. According to the Mayo Clinic, people with untreated or long-term experience with high blood sugar may develop neuropathy. Severe neurpathy may lead to hand and foot problems, such as infections. Once blood sugar levels are properly managed, symptoms of neuropathy generally lessen or dissipate. Medications may also help treat pain involved with the condition. If you exhibit symptoms of nerve damage and suspect a blood sugar correlation but have not been tested for diabetes or other blood sugar-related conditions, seek guidance from your doctor.
Gum and Tooth Problems
On-going high blood sugar can negatively impact the teeth and gums. According to the The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, high blood sugar can stimulate bacterial growth in the gums, leading to infection and disease. If symptoms worsen and remain untreated, they may result in periodontitis, a disease characterized by infected gums. Severe cases of periodontitis may loosen teeth or may cause loss of affected teeth. Monitoring and managing blood sugar are key to preventing tooth and gum damage. In addition, taking proper care of your teeth is important. Flosing daily is also recommended. See your dentist routinely or immediately if symptoms such as redness, pain or swelling appear in your gums.
Ketoacidosis
When people with diabetes endure long-term high blood sugar, a potentially life threatening condition known as ketoacidosis may occur. When the body lacks insulin, it can't utilize glucose for energy. In response, the body attempts to use fat as energy. This causes the release of toxic substances known as ketones into your body. Excess ketones are flushed out of the body through increased urination. As the situation worsens, risk of loss of consciousness and diabetic coma increase. According to the American Diabetes Association, symptoms of ketoacidosis include difficulty breathing, breath that smells "fruity," nausea, vomiting and dry mouth. If you notice any one of these symptoms, seek prompt medical attention. To improve your likelihood of receiving efficient treatment, people diagnosed with diabetes may wish to wear a medical bracelet that indicates their condition.
