Sugars, or carbohydrates, are the main source of energy for the body. An excessive level of glucose, the main sugar used by the body, is called hyperglycemia. Intermittent hyperglycemia can be normal, as a result of daily eating habits. But if the hyperglycemia is the result of an underlying chronic condition, it is important to address it to prevent long-term health consequences.
Causes
Hyperglycemia usually occurs if the person ingests too many carbohydrates, or if the body is unable to process the sugar in the bloodstream. The main condition that affects hyperglycemia is diabetes mellitus. According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes results when the body is unable to produce or use efficiently the hormone insulin. Insulin helps to drive sugar from the blood into the cells. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin. In type 2 diabetes, insulin is present, but the body cannot use it properly. In both conditions, the levels of sugar in the blood increase to abnormal levels. Other causes of hyperglycemia include medicines, such as steroids; stress; and illnesses such as the flu.
Symptoms
The buildup of sugar in the bloodstream leads to increased levels of sugar in the urine. As a result, hyperglycemia causes increases in the frequency and amount of urine. This can lead to dehydration, with dry lips, rapid heart rate, and a constant feeling of thirst. According to the Mayo Clinic, other symptoms include fatigue, headache, and blurry vision. Even though there is plenty of sugar in the blood stream, the body is unable to use it if there is not enough insulin. As such, people with diabetes often have weight loss despite feeling hungry all the time. Other symptoms of hyperglycemia include nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, and a fruity-smelling breath.
Complications
Long-term hyperglycemia can lead to severe medical complications. These include cardiovascular disease, with an increase in the risk of a heart attack, stroke, and decreased circulation to the extremities; kidney damage; and neuropathy, or nerve damage. Excessive blood sugar can also cause retinopathy, or damage to the retina of the eye that can lead to blindness; and can weaken the immune system, predisposing to serious bacterial infections of the skin, teeth and gums.
Treatment
You should consult your doctor before discontinuing any medications that could be causing excessive blood sugar. People with diabetes may need glucose-lowering medicines, including insulin, to keep blood sugar levels under control. Frequent monitoring of blood sugar levels and appropriate treatment can prevent long-term complications of diabetes.
