Carbohydrates provide the body with glucose, which is the main source of energy for the body. Normal blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels are approximately 100 mg/dL when fasting, according to Medline Plus. Hyperglycemia occurs when glucose accumulates in the blood and the levels reach numbers that are higher than normal.
Physiology
Different carbohydrates move through the digestive tract at different rates. Refined carbohydrates, such as white sugar and white breads, move through the digestive system quickly and cause rapid increases in blood glucose levels. Whole grains and fiber move through the digestive system slowly and keep blood glucose levels steady. Once a carbohydrate is broken down into glucose, the glucose leaves the digestive tract and enters the bloodstream. Glucose in the bloodstream triggers the release of the hormone insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. Insulin helps to maintain glucose levels in the blood. Excess amounts of glucose are stored in the liver and muscles and serve as the body's energy source when glucose is not available.
Causes
Hyperglycemia is associated with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Hyperglycemia occurs in Type 1 diabetes when the diabetic does not administer enough insulin. Those with Type 2 diabetes have insulin in their bodies, but the insulin is not as effective as it should be, according to the American Diabetes Association. As a result, blood glucose levels may rise. Hyperglycemia can also occur as a result of an excess consumption of food, lack of exercise and emotional or physical stress.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of hyperglycemia are polyuria, polydipsia and polyphagia. Polyuria is excessive urination, polydipsia is excessive thirst and polyphagia is excessive hunger.
Complications
If left untreated, hyperglycemia in diabetics can lead to a condition called ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis occurs when the body begins to break down fats and produces ketones as waste products. The body will attempt to eliminate some of the ketones through the urine, but if the levels are too high, ketones will accumulate in the blood. Symptoms of ketoacidosis include shortness of breath, fruity smelling breath, nausea, vomiting and dry mouth. The American Diabetes Association notes that ketoacidosis is life-threatening and requires immediate treatment.
Prevention
In order to prevent hyperglycemia, it is important for diabetics to properly administer insulin during meals and throughout the day. Those without diabetes should monitor food intake and avoid excessive consumption of refined foods.
