Glucose is a sugar found in foods, but it is also made by the body to provide for the cells' energy needs. The body also produces insulin, a hormone that helps the cells use glucose. When the body either cannot produce enough insulin, or does not respond to insulin, the amount of glucose in the blood is elevated, a condition known as "hyperglycemia." Hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications, but with the proper education and management, it can be controlled.
Causes
People with diabetes must control their elevated glucose with medication, exercise, and food. The Joslin Diabetes Center writes that elevated glucose levels may occur in people with diabetes when they do not get enough exercise or physical activity; do not take their medication or take it at the wrong time; eat more than planned; suffer an unusual stressor, such as illness, infection, or surgery; or use insulin that has spoiled from extreme temperatures.
Signs and Symptoms
The kidneys respond to high levels of sugar by flushing out the extra sugar in the urine. Therefore, frequent urination and high amounts of glucose in the urine are common symptoms of elevated glucose. All the urination causes people with elevated glucose to drink frequently. Another sign of elevated blood sugar is fatigue, because the body cannot properly process glucose for energy. Unexplained weight loss can also be a symptom, when the body breaks down muscle and fat for energy because it cannot use glucose for fuel.
Treatment
Elevated glucose levels can be often be lowered by exercising. The American Diabetes Association states, however, that if blood glucose levels are higher than 240 mg/dl, check urine for ketones. If ketones are present, exercise could make the elevated glucose even higher. Following a diabetic diet prescribed by a doctor, and meeting with a dietician as necessary, can help lower glucose levels. If these changes do not help, the ADA recommends discussing with a physician the possibility of changing the amount or timing of medication.
Consequences
If left untreated, consistent elevated glucose can cause some serious problems. When the body lacks insulin or cannot use it properly, glucose cannot be used as fuel. The body instead breaks down fat for energy, which in turn releases waste products in the blood known as ketones. The body cannot tolerate these high levels of ketones and tries to get rid of them in the urine, but as they continue to build up they cause the blood to become very acidic. This throws off the body's chemical balance, causing a condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA. DKA is a very serious condition that must be treated promptly. It can lead to coma and death.
Prevention
Fortunately, DKA and elevated glucose levels can be prevented by managing and monitoring blood glucose levels. Even with good management, all diabetic patients will experience hyperglycemia. Steven Dowshen, MD suggests ways to avoid elevated blood glucose levels, such as eating meals and snacks on time. Also it is important to take the right amount of insulin, as prescribed, and to monitor blood glucose levels carefully.
