G’day, mate! Living with diabetes means keeping blood sugar levels in check is key. But what if they get too high? That’s hyperglycemia, and it’s serious if not managed. Symptoms show up when levels hit 180 to 200 mg/dL, or 10 to 11.1 mmol/L1.
For those with diabetes, symptoms start at 250 mg/dL or higher. Without diabetes, symptoms can appear at lower levels2.
Hyperglycemia isn’t just for type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It also affects women with gestational diabetes. Even those without diabetes can have high blood sugar, especially when very sick or recovering from a big health event.
But, occasional mild hyperglycemia isn’t usually a big deal. It can be treated easily or even go away on its own. Yet, very high or long-lasting blood sugar can cause serious problems. It can damage blood vessels and tissues, leading to health issues and even life-threatening conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)2.
Key Takeaways
- Hyperglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels are too high, typically above 180-200 mg/dL or 10-11.1 mmol/L1.
- Early symptoms of hyperglycemia usually appear at 250 mg/dL or higher for people with diabetes, and at lower levels for undiagnosed individuals2.
- Hyperglycemia can affect people with type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes, and occasionally those without diabetes who are seriously ill.
- While mild episodes may resolve on their own, prolonged hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications like tissue damage and life-threatening conditions2.
- Maintaining proper blood sugar levels through diabetes management, glucose monitoring, and addressing insulin resistance is crucial for preventing hyperglycemia and its consequences.
Understanding Hyperglycaemia
Hyperglycaemia, or high blood sugar, is a condition that affects people with diabetes. It happens when their blood glucose levels go up too high. For those without diabetes, blood sugar levels should be between 60-140 mg/dl3.
But, if blood sugar levels go over 7.8 mmol/l (140 mg/dl), it’s called hyperglycemia3.
Definition of High Blood Sugar
High blood sugar happens when there’s too much glucose in the blood. This can be because the body doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it well4. Signs of high blood sugar include feeling thirsty, tired, headaches, needing to pee a lot, and blurry vision4.
Types of Diabetes Affected by Hyperglycaemia
Hyperglycaemia can affect many types of diabetes, including:
- Type 1 Diabetes: This is when the body can’t make insulin, leading to high blood sugar. Without treatment, blood sugar can go over 27.8 mmol/l (500 mg/dl)3.
- Type 2 Diabetes: This is when the body doesn’t use insulin well, causing blood sugar to rise.
- Gestational Diabetes: This happens during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born. But, it can still cause high blood sugar if not managed right.
It’s very important for people with diabetes to check their blood sugar levels. They should aim for 80 to 130 mg/dL before eating and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after eating4. High blood sugar is shown by a blood glucose level of 48 mmol/mol or more (6.5%) with an HbA1c test, or over 7 mmol/L when fasting5.
“Properly treating high blood sugar requires medication adjustments to lower blood sugar levels to normal ranges.”3
Knowing about hyperglycemia, the types of diabetes it affects, and the need to check blood sugar levels helps manage diabetes well. This can prevent serious problems from high blood sugar.
Causes of High Blood Sugar
High blood sugar, or hyperglycaemia, can be caused by many things. Knowing what causes it is key to managing it. This is especially true for people with diabetes or those at risk.
Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance is a big reason for high blood sugar, especially in type 2 diabetes. It happens when the body’s cells don’t respond well to insulin. This hormone helps cells take in glucose from the blood.
So, the pancreas makes more insulin. But, it can’t keep up over time. This leads to more glucose in the blood. Obesity, not exercising, and bad diets can cause insulin resistance6.
Pancreas Issues
The pancreas is key for keeping blood sugar levels right by making insulin. But, problems with the pancreas can stop it from making enough insulin. This leads to high blood sugar.
Some issues include:
- Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disease that destroys insulin-making cells.
- Chronic pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation that damages insulin-making cells.
- Pancreatic cancer: Tumours that mess with insulin production.
- Cystic fibrosis: A genetic disorder that scars and damages the pancreas, leading to insulin shortage.
Other conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, diseases of the pancreas, and PCOS can also cause high blood sugar in non-diabetics6.
Temporary Causes of Hyperglycaemia
While insulin resistance and pancreas problems are ongoing, some temporary factors can also raise blood sugar. These include:
- Stress: Physical stress from illness or emotional stress can raise blood sugar by releasing hormones like cortisol and epinephrine.
- Medications: Some drugs, like corticosteroids and diuretics, can mess with insulin sensitivity or glucose metabolism, causing blood sugar spikes.
- Skipping or forgetting diabetes medications: Missing a dose or taking the wrong dose can raise blood sugar levels7.
- The dawn phenomenon: Hormone surges early in the morning can also raise blood sugar levels6.
Knowing what causes high blood sugar helps people with diabetes and their doctors prevent and manage it. They can try lifestyle changes, like eating right, exercising more, and managing stress. They also need to check their blood sugar often and adjust their meds as needed.
Signs and Symptoms of Hyperglycaemia
Hyperglycaemia, or high blood sugar, is a big worry for people with diabetes. It happens when blood glucose levels go over 15mmol/L8. Symptoms can start slowly over days or weeks. Sometimes, there are no signs until the blood sugar gets really high.
Signs of high blood sugar include feeling very thirsty and needing to pee a lot. You might also see things blurry, feel really tired, and lose weight without trying8. Other signs are getting sick a lot, like thrush, bladder infections, and skin infections. If you notice these signs, check your blood sugar often and talk to your doctor.
More people are getting hyperglycaemia because of being overweight, not moving as much, and getting older9. About 30.5 million Americans have diabetes, and almost 84 million have prediabetes9. Countries with the most diabetic patients are China, India, the United States, Brazil, and Russia9.
“Not taking enough insulin or diabetes tablets is a common cause of hyperglycaemia.”8
Not treating hyperglycaemia can cause serious problems like diabetic ketoacidosis8. If your blood sugar is over 15mmol/L and you have ketones, you need to see a doctor right away8. High blood sugar can also cause heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision problems, and nerve damage8.
For people with type 1 diabetes, high blood sugar can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis8. Gestational diabetes happens in 4% of pregnancies because of less insulin9. People with hyperglycaemia need to check for problems like eye, kidney, and heart disease9.
Being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, and being from certain ethnic groups are risk factors9. If you’re at risk, watch your blood sugar closely and work with your doctor. Missing diabetes medication can also cause high blood sugar.
Early Symptoms of High Blood Sugar
When your blood sugar levels start to rise, your body may show some early signs. Knowing these signs early can help you manage your blood sugar. This can prevent more serious problems. Two common signs are feeling very thirsty (polydipsia) and needing to pee a lot (polyuria)1011.
Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination
When your blood sugar goes up, your body tries to get rid of the extra sugar through pee. This takes water from your body, making you feel dehydrated and thirsty11. You might drink more water, but this can also mean you pee more often.
When your blood sugar is over 180 mg/dL, you pee more. This is because your body is trying to get rid of the extra sugar11. This can make you even more dehydrated, making your thirst worse.
Headache and Blurred Vision
High blood sugar can also cause headaches and blurry vision. These symptoms happen because of changes in your body’s fluids and your eye’s lens. When your blood sugar goes up, your eye’s lens swells, making it hard to see clearly12.
Headaches might happen because of dehydration or changes in blood flow in your brain. If you have headaches or blurry vision that won’t go away, check your blood sugar and talk to your doctor.
Other early signs of high blood sugar include feeling very tired, losing weight without trying, and getting sick more often12. If you notice these signs, it’s important to check your blood sugar often and get medical help to manage it well1210.
Long-Term Symptoms of Hyperglycaemia
High blood sugar can lead to serious symptoms over time. These signs may seem small at first but show your body is fighting hard. It’s important to know about these symptoms.
Fatigue and Weight Loss
Feeling very tired all the time is a big sign of high blood sugar. Even with enough sleep, you might still feel very weak13. You might also lose weight without trying, as your body uses fat and muscle for energy instead14.
Skin and Yeast Infections
High blood sugar makes you more likely to get skin infections and yeast. This is because sugar helps bad bacteria and fungi grow14. You might get infections, thrush, or dry, itchy skin13.
Persistent skin infections or slow-healing wounds should never be ignored, as they can be warning signs of uncontrolled diabetes.
Slow-Healing Cuts and Sores
Do cuts and sores take longer to heal than usual? This is a sign of high blood sugar14. High sugar can harm blood vessels and nerves, making it hard for your body to heal13. This is especially dangerous for wounds on your feet and legs, as it can lead to serious infections and even amputation13.
| Symptom | Description | Potential Complications |
|---|---|---|
| Chronic Fatigue | Persistent exhaustion and lack of energy despite adequate rest | Decreased quality of life, difficulty performing daily tasks |
| Unexplained Weight Loss | Unintentional weight loss despite increased appetite | Muscle wasting, weakened immune system |
| Skin Infections | Recurrent bacterial or fungal infections of the skin | Cellulitis, sepsis, permanent skin damage |
| Delayed Wound Healing | Slow-healing cuts, scrapes, or sores, especially on feet and legs | Infections, gangrene, amputation |
If you notice these symptoms, act fast and talk to your doctor. Managing your blood sugar well can prevent serious problems131415.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you have diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) symptoms, get help right away. These are serious diabetes complications that need quick action to avoid serious health problems.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Fruity-smelling breath
- Deep, labored breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Confusion and loss of consciousness
HHS symptoms include:
- Signs of dehydration, such as headache and dry skin
- Weak and rapid heartbeat
- Difficulty staying awake or alert
If your blood sugar is too low, below 70 mg/dL, it’s a sign to act fast16. A very low blood sugar, below 54 mg/dL, is an emergency1617.
Low blood sugar can make you feel weak, shaky, and hungry16. It can also cause headaches and blurred vision16. Symptoms can be different for everyone and can happen quickly17.
People with diabetes for a long time might not feel low blood sugar16. This is called hypoglycemic unawareness16.
For severe low blood sugar, like losing consciousness or seizures, call for emergency help16.
It’s important to check your blood sugar often if you have type 1 diabetes or take insulin17. If it’s too low, treat it with 15g of fast-acting carbs17. Good fast-acting sugars include glucose tablets and fruit juice16.
If you have low blood sugar often, talk to your doctor about your insulin and needles16. Wearing a medical alert bracelet can also help in emergencies16.
Remember, quick action is key for diabetes complications like DKA or HHS. By being alert and getting medical help fast, you can manage your diabetes well and avoid serious health problems.
Complications of Prolonged High Blood Sugar
Untreated high blood sugar can lead to serious health problems. These include heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney damage. It can also cause eye and foot problems, and affect your bones and teeth1.
When blood sugar stays high for a long time, it can harm many parts of your body. This can make your life much harder.
Cardiovascular Disease
High blood sugar can lead to heart disease. People with diabetes are almost twice as likely to get heart disease18. This can cause heart attacks and strokes.
Diabetes can also affect blood pressure and cholesterol. Keeping blood sugar levels healthy is key to avoiding these dangers13.
Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)
Neuropathy is a common problem for people with diabetes. About 70% of those with diabetes get some form of neuropathy18. It can cause pain, tingling, and numbness.
This can make it hard to balance, digest food, and have sex. It really affects your daily life.
Kidney Damage and Failure
High blood sugar can damage your kidneys. This might mean you need dialysis or a kidney transplant13. The kidneys help filter waste from your blood.
When they’re damaged, they can’t do this job well. It’s important to watch your kidney health and keep blood sugar levels in check.
Eye Damage (Diabetic Retinopathy)
Diabetic retinopathy affects about 28.5% of people with diabetes18. It can lead to blindness. Millions of people worldwide suffer from eye problems caused by diabetes13.
Damage to the retina’s blood vessels can cause vision loss. Regular eye exams and early treatment can help prevent this.
| Complication | Effects on the Body | Prevention Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular Disease | Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood vessel problems | Maintain healthy blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels |
| Neuropathy | Pain, tingling, loss of feeling, and difficulties with balance and digestion | Control blood sugar levels and adopt a healthy lifestyle |
| Nephropathy | Kidney damage leading to potential need for dialysis or transplant | Monitor kidney function and maintain healthy blood sugar levels |
| Diabetic Retinopathy | Damage to blood vessels in the retina causing vision loss or blindness | Undergo regular eye exams and control blood sugar levels |
Emergency Complications of Hyperglycaemia
High blood sugar can cause serious problems that need quick help. Two big issues are Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) and Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State (HHS). Both can lead to dehydration and, if not treated, a diabetic coma19.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
DKA happens when the body uses fat for energy without insulin. It’s more common in type 1 diabetes. Symptoms can start slowly but get worse fast if not treated19.
Early signs are thirst, needing to pee a lot, and feeling tired. Severe symptoms include trouble breathing, confusion, or fainting20. DKA can be triggered by sickness, infections, or certain medicines20.
If you think you have DKA, get medical help right away. Without treatment, it can lead to a diabetic coma and even death19.
Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State (HHS)
HHS is caused by dehydration and trying to get rid of too much sugar. It’s more common in type 2 diabetes and takes longer to start than DKA19. It often affects older people with uncontrolled diabetes who are sick or have infections20.
Symptoms include dehydration, fast heart rate, fever, constant thirst, and confusion20. Like DKA, HHS can also cause a diabetic coma and needs quick medical help19.
Keeping blood sugar levels in check can prevent long-term problems from high blood sugar19. Knowing the signs and getting medical help fast is key to avoiding serious issues.
Preventing High Blood Sugar Episodes
It’s key to stop high blood sugar to manage diabetes well. Making lifestyle changes and watching your blood sugar can help a lot. Regular visits to your doctor are also important to keep an eye on your health and adjust your treatment if needed.
Eating healthy is a big step in preventing high blood sugar. Eating the right amounts and choosing foods that don’t spike your blood sugar are good ideas. Also, eating more fiber from fruits, veggies, and whole grains helps control blood sugar better.
Exercise is also very important for diabetes prevention. It makes your body use insulin better. But, always talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise, especially if you’re on diabetes meds that can cause low blood sugar.
Managing stress is another key factor in preventing high blood sugar episodes. High levels of stress hormones can cause blood sugar levels to rise, so finding healthy ways to cope with stress, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help lower blood sugar levels21.
Drinking enough water is also key to keep blood sugar in check. Water helps get rid of extra glucose and prevents dehydration, which can raise blood sugar levels.
| Blood Sugar Range | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 80-120 mg/dL before meals (age 59 and younger) | Target range recommended by Mayo Clinic22 |
| 80-130 mg/dL before meals | Target range recommended by American Diabetes Association22 |
| Less than 180 mg/dL two hours after meals | Target range recommended by American Diabetes Association22 |
| 240 mg/dL or above | Check for possible diabetic ketoacidosis22 |
Regular doctor visits are vital to keep an eye on your blood sugar and adjust your treatment if needed. The American Diabetes Association suggests getting an A1C test 2 to 4 times a year. An A1C level of 7% or less means your blood sugar is well-controlled. Levels above 7% might mean it’s not.
By changing your lifestyle and working with your healthcare team, you can lower your risk of high blood sugar. Remember, your brain uses a lot of sugar for its functions. So, keeping your blood sugar healthy is important for your brain and body.
Managing Diabetes and Blood Sugar Levels
Managing diabetes well is key to staying healthy and avoiding serious problems. By being proactive, you can control your blood sugar and feel better overall.
Following a Diabetes Meal Plan
Healthy eating is vital for managing diabetes. Working with a dietitian can help you create a meal plan that fits your needs and life. Your plan should include foods like fruits, veggies, and whole grains, which help keep blood sugar stable because of their fiber23.
Be careful with carbs, as they affect blood sugar the most23. Carbs turn into sugar, which can quickly raise blood glucose23.
Monitoring Blood Sugar Regularly
Checking your glucose often is key to managing diabetes. Your doctor will tell you how often to use a glucose meter at home. Aim for blood sugar levels between 80 to 130 mg/dL before meals and under 180 mg/dL two hours after24.
Monitoring your blood sugar helps you spot trends and issues early. This way, you can make smart choices about your treatment.
Keeping a log of your blood sugar readings, along with notes on your diet, physical activity, and medication, can provide valuable insights for you and your healthcare team.
Adjusting Medication and Lifestyle
Your doctor might suggest medication adjustments based on your blood sugar and health. This could mean changing your insulin dose or adding new medications. Always follow your treatment plan and talk to your doctor about any side effects.
Changing your lifestyle is also important for managing diabetes:
- Do at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week23.
- Eat a balanced diet and exercise to keep a healthy weight.
- Use stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
- Drink no more than 2 drinks a day for men and 1 for women24.
| Blood Sugar Level | Classification | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Below 70 mg/dL | Low (Hypoglycemia) | Consume quick-acting carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets or fruit juice24 |
| 80-130 mg/dL before meals | Target range | Continue with current management plan24 |
| Less than 180 mg/dL 2 hours after meals | Target range | Continue with current management plan24 |
| Above 240 mg/dL when sick | High (Hyperglycemia) | Contact your healthcare team for guidance24 |
By checking your blood sugar often, eating well, staying active, and working with your healthcare team, you can manage your diabetes well. This helps avoid serious problems.
Risk Factors for Hyperglycaemia in Diabetes
If you have diabetes, knowing what can raise your blood sugar is key. High blood sugar often hits those with diabetes who don’t make enough insulin or use it well25. By knowing these risks and teaming up with your healthcare team, you can keep your blood sugar in check and avoid serious problems.
Incorrect Insulin Usage or Dosage
Using the wrong insulin or the wrong amount is a big risk for high blood sugar. This includes using the wrong insulin type, not injecting it right, or using old insulin. It’s vital to work with your doctor to find the right insulin for you and learn how to use it correctly.
Illness, Infection, or Stress
Stress, illness, or infection can mess with your hormones and raise your blood sugar25. When you’re stressed or sick, check your blood sugar more often and adjust your plan. Your healthcare team can help you manage your blood sugar during tough times.
Certain Medications
Some medicines, like corticosteroids, certain diuretics, and antipsychotics, can mess with insulin and cause high blood sugar26. If you start a new medicine, talk to your doctor about how it might affect your blood sugar. They might need to change your diabetes treatment plan.
Other things that can lead to high blood sugar include type 2 diabetes, past gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, being overweight, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure26. Eating well, staying active, and taking your medicine as directed can help lower these risks and keep your blood sugar in balance2527.
Conclusion
Managing diabetes and preventing high blood sugar is complex. It needs education, self-management, and support. Knowing the causes and symptoms of high blood sugar helps you keep your levels in check. Aim for fasting levels of 70 to 99 mg/dL and random tests under 125 mg/dL28.
The body naturally keeps glucose levels between 4 to 6 mmol/L. This is about 72 to 108 mg/dL29.
Living a healthy lifestyle is key to managing diabetes. Eat well, exercise often, and check your blood sugar regularly. Use home blood glucose monitoring (BGM) or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)30. Also, take your medicines as told by your doctor. This is very important for those using insulin29.
Work closely with your healthcare team and keep up with new diabetes management tips. This way, you can live well with diabetes and avoid serious problems. Education, self-care, a healthy lifestyle, and support are essential for good blood sugar control and well-being.