Hyperglycemia, also known as high blood sugar or high blood glucose, is a condition where there is too much sugar circulating in the body. While hyperglycemia is usually associated with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, there are additional causes of the elevated levels of sugar in the body.
Diabetes
This is the most common cause of hyperglycemia. In patients who suffer from diabetes, there is either not enough insulin production or insulin is not used efficiently, leading to the elevated levels of glucose in the blood. Injections of insulin or other diabetes-specific medications can help keep glucose levels within a normal range. While there is not a cure for diabetes, taking medications such as insulin as prescribed will help to prevent high blood sugar readings. Type 1 and Type 2, as well as gestational diabetes, all present with hyperglycemia.
Prednisone
Prednisone is a steroid medication that is prescribed to patients for many different health reasons. While the medication is highly effective in the treatment of a broad spectrum of problems, it can also cause hyperglycemia. High doses or prolonged use of prednisone renders the body unable to efficiently use the insulin the body does produce, allowing for glucose levels to become quite high. An injection of insulin will help to return glucose levels to normal, as will cessation of the medication.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is the inflammation or infection of the pancreas, and it can cause hyperglycemia. The reason for this is that the pancreas is responsible for the production of insulin. When the pancreas is unable to function properly, glucose levels in the blood will climb higher and higher. Patients may require insulin injections until the pancreas returns to its normal state.
Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance can also cause hyperglycemia. Insulin resistance is a bit different than diabetes. The body is still making adequate amounts of insulin; the body is just no longer responding to it. The result is that the body cannot change carbohydrates into energy, and the glucose levels in the blood rise rapidly. Exercise, a better diet, and in some situations, insulin injections will help to return blood glucose levels to a more normal range.
Cushing's Syndrome
Those with Cushing's syndrome may also suffer from hyperglycemia. The reason for this is that in Cushing's syndrome, the body is not able to control its use of the hormone cortisol. When cortisol is not used properly, it can affect all of the bodily systems, including the ability to secrete and use insulin effectively. The result is that blood glucose levels can climb dangerously high if not treated.
