High blood glucose

Overview

Hyperglycemia is the medical term for high blood glucose (sugar). The condition develops in people with diabetes when the body has too little, or not enough, insulin or when the body isn't properly using the insulin it produces.

Causes

There are a variety of reasons why someone with diabetes will experience hyperglycemia. For example, if you have type 1 diabetes, you may have underestimated the amount of insulin that you required to cover a meal. If you have type 2 diabetes, you may have eaten more than you normally do or skipped your exercise that day. Alternatively, you may need stronger or different medications or simply have gained some weight recently. Even stress can cause blood sugar levels to go up unexpectedly.

Symptoms

The signs of hyperglycemia include:

  • high blood glucose
  • excessive sugar in the urine
  • frequent urination
  • increased thirst
  • fatigue
  • moodiness

Treatment

It is important to check your blood sugar levels frequently so that you can detect hyperglycemia early on. Ask your doctor for help in deciding how often is right for you.

If you do not take steps to bring down your glucose levels your body won't be able to burn glucose and instead will break down the body's own fat cells. As a result, waste products called ketones build up in the blood. This can lead to ketoacidosis, a life-threatening coma. Warning signs include:

  • shortness of breath
  • breath that smells fruity
  • nausea and vomiting
  • a very dry mouth

If you have type 1 diabetes, you can take more fast acting insulin to lower your blood glucose to a safe level. However, if you have type 2 diabetes and normally exercise to keep your levels under control, DO NOT do so until you have checked your urine for ketones. If you do have ketones, DO NOT exercise as this can send your glucose levels soaring even higher. Your doctor can advise you on steps to take to bring your glucose levels down safely.

Prevention

You can prevent hyperglycemia by closely monitoring your blood glucose levels and by not eating too much or exercising too little. Ask your doctor for advice in managing your diabetes in other ways.