Hyperglycemia, also known as high blood sugar, is a condition in which excessive levels of glucose are found circulating in the blood. It is most often associated with diabetes, but other conditions can lead to abnormally high blood sugar levels. There are many signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia, which can be very damaging to the body.
Increased Urination and Thirst
The kidneys are responsible for filtering the blood, reabsorbing important molecules and eliminating waste through the urine. Normally, glucose in the blood is reabsorbed, but too much glucose in the blood exceeds the kidneys reabsorption capabilities. The excess glucose is eliminated in the urine, and water follows the glucose, thus increasing urine production. Excessive urination and water loss also lead to dehydration, triggering the thirst response as a way to communicate the body's need for more water.
Fatigue
High blood sugar is a result of the body's inability to properly deliver glucose to the cells of the body. Glucose is the body's fuel, and high blood sugar levels mean the cells are not getting enough energy to function properly. This leads to feelings of fatigue and weakness.
Vision Changes
Vision changes, primarily blurred vision, can result from abnormally high blood sugar levels. Excess glucose enters the cells surrounding the lens of the eye, and water follows the glucose into the cells. The excess water alters the shape of the lens, causing problems with its ability to focus leading to blurry vision. Fortunately, this symptom can be corrected if blood sugar levels are corrected and stabilized.
Weight Loss
Without insulin, cells cannot utilize glucose, which then must be eliminated through excess urine, for example. This situation leads to weight loss. When an individual consumes food, only a portion of that food is converted to energy for the body. The weight loss consists of fat loss as well as muscle loss. Muscle loss can make an individual feel weak, tired, and unwell.
