Too much sugar in the blood is also called hyperglycemia. This typically occurs in individuals who have diabetes, but not always. It can be caused by medications, not taking enough insulin, diet choices and illness. If left untreated, it can cause an array of health complications, some of which can be fatal. If you suspect you have hyperglycemia, contact your health care provider immediately to get appropriate treatment.
Early Signs and Symptoms
Knowing the symptoms of hyperglycemia in its early stages can help prevent more serious complications later on. Some of the earliest symptoms include increased thirst, blurry vision, frequent urination, headache and fatigue. As hyperglycemia progresses, it can cause other symptoms like breath that smells fruity, dry mouth, confusion, abdominal pain and weakness.
Long-Term Problems
If hyperglycemia continues untreated for long periods of time, complications can occur. These complications can include heart disease, kidney damage, neuropathy, cataracts, bone and joint disorders, skin problems and teeth and gum infections. Damaged nerves and poor blood flow can also cause feet problems.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
If hyperglycemia continues to go untreated, diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, can occur. This is a complication typically seen in Type 1 diabetes. If there is a lack of insulin, glucose cannot be used as fuel, so fats are broken down for fuel instead. As the fats break down, they release ketones, which may be excreted through urine. If an excess of fat is broken down, a build up of ketones may occur in the blood, which causes ketoacidosis. This condition is a health emergency and requires immediate treatment. Early symptoms of ketoacidosis are similar to early symptoms of hyperglycemia. Symptoms become more severe as the amount of ketones increases and include shortness of breath, dry or flushed skin and nausea or vomiting. An individual typically has to go to the hospital for treatment, which may include intravenous fluids, insulin, glucose and dietary modifications.
Diabetic Hyperosmolar Syndrome
Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome is a complication of Type 2 diabetes. In this condition, extremely high blood sugar levels are present, and glucose builds up in the blood and becomes more concentrated. Normally, water would enter the bloodstream, but individuals with this condition are dehydrated, so there is no water. Instead, the salt and glucose in the blood draw water from various body organs. This condition may also occur in individuals without diabetes due to infection, illness or medications. It can be serious, causing blood clots, brain swelling and death. To treat this condition, fluids and potassium are given intravenously to aid rehydration, and, if necessary, insulin is administered.
