Left untreated, high glucose levels can result in a life-threatening diabetic coma, called ketoacidosis. Without enough insulin to transport glucose into your cells, your cells start to burn fat, instead of sugar, for energy. Ketones are the byproduct that result from your body breaking down fat; if they build up in your bloodstream, you may feel short of breath and sick to your stomach. Eventually, ketoacidosis may occur. Proper monitoring and management of glucose levels will help prevent high glucose levels. If your levels are very high, you may need emergency medical treatment.
Step 1
Check for ketones in your urine. If your blood sugar is below 240 mg/dL and there are no ketones, exercising will help lower your blood sugar. Check your glucose levels before, during and after exercising. According to "The New York Times" Health Guide, exercising may also improve insulin resistance and lower high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Step 2
Take an extra dose of insulin or other diabetes medication. The amount of medication you will need depends on several factors -- how high your glucose level is currently, how long it has been since you've eaten and which medication you are using. If you are unsure how much glucose-lowering medication to take, consult your physician.
Step 3
Flush your system with fluids that contain potassium, but not sugar. Very high glucose levels can be caused in part by dehydration or poor kidney function. Both conditions lead to concentrated glucose and sodium levels in your bloodstream. The extra sodium in your blood draws water from your organs, which only makes the problem worse. Extreme cases are called "diabetic hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome," and the best treatment is intravenous fluids and insulin, which requires hospitalization.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid high blood sugar by remembering to take your diabetes medication on schedule and avoiding foods high in simple carbohydrates.
- Diabetic hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome is a medical emergency. According to MedlinePlus, up to 40 percent of people with HSS die.
