High blood sugar, also known as diabetes, is a result of high levels of glucose (sugar) found in the blood. While more than one type of diabetes exists, they have one common bond between them; each causes a spike in blood glucose. Whether you have yet to be diagnosed, or are already diagnosed and are adapting to your condition, it is imperative to recognize the moments your blood sugar levels rise, as this situation can pose a number of health risks to you.
Increased Urination
The job of your kidneys is to process toxins and waste, excreting them from your body in the form of urine. Your blood is among the fluid filtered by your kidneys, which means that the glucose in your blood is filtered and processed as well. However your kidneys can only absorb and filter what your body considers to be normal amounts of glucose--when your glucose levels are too high, your kidneys are unable to handle the excess amount, thus leaking into your urine, taking with it any and all water from your kidneys. This increases your urine production, resulting in a greater need to urinate.
Unexplained Weight Loss
An unexplained weight loss may occur even when your eating habits haven't changed. Simply put, this is due to the fact that glucose represents calories needed by your body. When they are lost in your urine due to your kidneys' inability to absorb and process it, these calories are lost each time you urinate. Diabetes Home states that because of this process, you are not using all of the calories you are ingesting, resulting in a weight loss.
In addition, when your blood sugar levels are too high, they cause your metabolism to skyrocket. However, this is not always to your benefit; rather than burning fat, in the end, you lose much needed muscle as well.
Thirst
The explanation for increased thirst is simple--the more you urinate, the more dehydrated your body becomes. This results in increased thirst as your body realizes you need extra fluid to replace the fluid you are losing. Diabetes Home also states that excess glucose may be found in your saliva, which can also contribute to your incessant need to drink.
Feeling Tired
The job of glucose in your body is to provide you with energy, according to KidsHealth. When your blood sugar levels are too high, though, the glucose is not being used in its most efficient manner and often leaves you feeling tired and worn down.
Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps are linked to the breakdown of muscles that can occur during weight loss. Not only is there a breakdown of vital muscles and tissues, but these contain electrolytes and salts, that when lost cause muscle cramping.
