An abnormally high level of sugar in the blood is medically referred to as hyperglycemia. Normally, your blood sugar levels are below 100 mg/dL, short for milligrams per deciliter. Hyperglycemia occurs when your body cannot properly control your blood sugar levels. Hyperglycemia is usually the first sign of diabetes, according to the American Heart Association.
Physiology
When you eat carbohydrates, they are broken down into glucose in your digestive system. Glucose moves through your small intestine and enters your blood, raising your blood sugar. An increase in blood sugar signals the pancreas to release the hormone insulin. Insulin attaches to glucose molecules and brings them to your cells, where it is used as energy. When the cells use glucose for energy, your blood sugar levels drop back to normal. Disruptions in this physiological process can lead to abnormally high levels of sugar in the blood.
Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes
Insulin resistance is a medical condition in which your pancreas successfully creates and releases insulin, but your body cannot use it properly. An increase in glucose in the blood will signal the pancreas to release insulin, but instead of traveling to the cells for energy, both glucose and insulin will remain in your blood. As a result, many people with insulin resistance have high levels of blood glucose as well as high levels of insulin in the blood. Insulin resistance can occur as a result of excess weight and sedentary lifestyle or because of genetic abnormalities. If you do not take steps to control insulin resistance, such as losing weight and exercising, the condition can develop into type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes can also cause abnormally high levels of sugar in the blood. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by an inability to properly make insulin. If the pancreas cannot make insulin, it is impossible for your cells to use the sugar in your blood. Those with type 1 diabetes require regular insulin injections to control their blood sugar.
Symptoms of Hyperglycemia
If you have any of these conditions, it is important to recognize the signs of hyperglycemia because chronically high blood sugar levels can lead to life-threatening conditions and coma, according to MayoClinic.com. The most common signs of hyperglycemia include frequent urination, increased thirst, blurred vision, fatigue, headache and excessive hunger. Signs of prolonged hyperglycemia include nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, dry mouth, weakness and confusion.
