Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs when there is not enough insulin in your bloodstream to move sugar into your cells for use as energy. High blood sugar may be caused by overeating, taking too little insulin or other diabetes medication, stress, lack of physical activity or illness. Increased thirst and the frequent need to urinate are symptoms of high plasma glucose. Left untreated, hyperglycemia may lead to serious medical complications, including ketoacidosis -- a diabetic coma.
Step 1
Take an insulin injection. The fastest way to lower your blood sugar level is to give your body more insulin to move the glucose from your bloodstream into your cells. Check your glucose level before taking insulin -- the amount of insulin you need depends on exactly how high your glucose level is.
Step 2
Exercise to lower your glucose level -- but only if your blood sugar is less than 240 mg/dL and there are no ketones present in your urine. If ketones are present, exercise may actually raise your plasma glucose level. Ketones are by-products of your body burning fat instead of sugar for energy. If too many ketones build up, ketoacidosis may result. Monitor your blood sugar before, during and after exercise. You don't want to lower your glucose level too much, which may lead to low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.
Step 3
Eat less food, specifically fewer carbohydrates. If you have frequent bouts of hyperglycemia, you may need to work with a dietitian to design a food plan that can help stabilize your blood sugar.
Tips and Warnings
- Stress and illness might affect your plasma glucose level. Check your blood sugar levels often if you are sick or suffer an emotional trauma.
- Certain medications interfere with insulin absorption. If changes in diet and exercise don't help control your blood sugar levels, talk to your doctor about possible drug interactions.
