Glucose is a monosaccharide sugar that circulates through your blood and is the primary source of energy for the human body. Your blood glucose levels can fluctuate according to the type and amount of food you eat and the amount of physical activity you get. High blood sugar can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
What is Normal
A fasting blood glucose reading of less than 110 milligrams per deciliter, or mg/dL, is normal. A reading of 126mg/dL or higher after two consecutive blood tests indicates diabetes. Likewise, a random blood glucose reading of 200mg/dL or higher combined with symptoms such as excessive thirst and/or urination, unexpected weight loss and fatigue, also indicates diabetes.
Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia refers to high levels of glucose in the blood. Diet and exercise patterns are a contributing factor, but illness or insufficient glucose-lowering medication can also cause it, according to the Mayo Clinic. Hyperglycemia is common among diabetics. Left untreated, it can affect the health of your kidneys, eyes, nerves and heart. It can also lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, in which the body burns fat instead of glucose for energy. Ketoacidosis can lead to diabetic coma or even death.
Causes
Hyperglycemia occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin -- which is necessary for glucose to provide fuel to your body's cells -- or your body becomes insulin resistant. A high-calorie or high-fat diet that's also high in sugary beverages can also contribute to high glucose levels,. Improperly administering insulin or oral diabetes medication, illness, infection, steroids, injury or surgery and stress can also raise blood sugar levels.
Symptoms
Other symptoms of hyperglycemia include blurred vision, headache, ketone or toxic acid buildup in the urine and blood, nausea and vomiting, fruity-smelling breath, dry mouth, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, weakness and confusion. Seek immediate medical attention if you can't keep food or drink down and your blood sugar levels are above 240mg/dL or you have ketones in your urine. You should also see your doctor if you can't maintain normal glucose levels or have glucose levels higher than 240mg/dL despite taking medication, and you have a fever lasting more than 24 hours.
Prevention/Treatment
Treatment involves medication and lifestyle changes that include dietary changes and exercise. A low-calorie and low-fat diet can help control glucose levels, promote weight loss if you are overweight, and reduce your risk of developing hyperglycemia if you don't have it, according to the Mayo Clinic. Watch your carbohydrate intake and stick to healthy choices such as low-fat diary products, vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains, which are also good sources of fiber. Your diet should also include fish such as salmon, herring and mackerel, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can help lower triglycerides. Stick to monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats such as peanut, canola and olive oil.
