A high blood sugar (glucose) level in the blood is defined as hyperglycemia. The causes of hyperglycemia include eating more food than is indicated in your diet plan, infection or illness, injury, surgery or emotional stress. In diabetes, taking less insulin or less oral medication may also cause hyperglycemia. Depending on the cause, the onset may take several hours to days. There are many symptoms seen in people with high blood sugar.
Frequent Urination
Frequent urination may be seen in individuals who have excess glucose in the blood. The kidneys will flush out the extra sugar in the urine; this will cause frequent urination and the production of larger amounts of urine. It may also lead to nocturia, the need to get up at night to urinate. Because the body is losing fluids through the kidneys, people may also experience dry mouth and excessive thirst. Your body may become dehydrated so it is important to inform your doctor of these symptoms.
Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is common in hyperglycemia. In people with diabetes, the body is unable to produce insulin and use the glucose in the blood. The body will break down stored fat and muscle for energy. This, in turn, will make the body think it needs more food for energy and increase the appetite. Increased appetite or excessive hunger is also common in hyperglycemia.
Fatigue
Fatigue and drowsiness may be seen in people with hyperglycemia. Blurred vision may also be present. Since the body is unable to use sugar effectively for energy, people may become lethargic and tired.
Severe Symptoms
In diabetic individuals, many of these symptoms will usually become evident after some time. If blood sugar is high for a long period of time, severe symptoms may develop. These include difficulty breathing, dizziness upon rising, rapid weight loss, extreme drowsiness or confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Unconsciousness or coma is a severe complication due to dehydration and usually occurs in diabetics who become stressed or are poorly controlled. It is important to treat hyperglycemia when the less severe symptoms appear to avoid potentially life-threatening symptoms.
References
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach;" Joseph T. DiPiro, Rovert L. Talbert, et al; 2008
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics: Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)
