Don't Ignore These 8 Warning Signs of High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, can creep up on you, often unnoticed until it starts causing serious problems. It’s crucial for individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels, but even those without a diagnosed condition can experience elevated blood sugar. Recognizing the early warning signs is key to taking proactive steps to manage your health and prevent long-term complications. This article will outline 8 crucial warning signs of high blood sugar that you shouldn't ignore. How To Lower Blood Sugar Quickly And Safely When It S Too High

What is Hyperglycemia?

Before diving into the warning signs, let's clarify what hyperglycemia actually is. Simply put, it means there's too much glucose in your blood. Glucose, derived from the food you eat, is the primary source of energy for your body. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps glucose enter cells to be used for energy. When there's not enough insulin, or when the body doesn't use insulin effectively (insulin resistance), glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to hyperglycemia.

Chronic hyperglycemia can damage various organs, including the kidneys, heart, nerves, and eyes. Therefore, early detection and management are paramount.

8 Warning Signs of High Blood Sugar to Watch Out For

Here are eight warning signs that might indicate your blood sugar levels are consistently higher than normal. If you experience these symptoms regularly, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.

1. Increased Thirst (Polydipsia): One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of high blood sugar is persistent and excessive thirst. Your body attempts to flush out the excess glucose through urination, leading to dehydration and an overwhelming feeling of thirst. You might find yourself constantly reaching for water or other beverages.

2. Frequent Urination (Polyuria): Closely related to increased thirst is the need to urinate frequently, especially at night. This happens because your kidneys are working overtime to filter out the excess glucose from your blood. Waking up multiple times during the night to urinate can be a significant indicator.

3. 

   Unexplained Fatigue: When glucose can't effectively enter your cells for energy, you may feel tired and sluggish despite getting adequate sleep. This fatigue can manifest as a general lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, and a constant feeling of weariness. Even simple tasks can feel draining. What Is An A1C Test And What Do Your Results Mean For You

4. Blurred Vision: High blood sugar can affect the lenses of your eyes, causing them to swell and distort your vision. This blurred vision can come and go as your blood sugar levels fluctuate. While temporary, prolonged hyperglycemia can lead to more serious eye problems over time.

5. Slow-Healing Cuts and Sores: Elevated glucose levels can impair the body's ability to heal. Minor cuts, scrapes, and sores may take significantly longer to heal than usual. This increased healing time raises the risk of infection.

6. Dry, Itchy Skin: High blood sugar can contribute to dry, itchy skin. This can be due to poor circulation caused by damage to small blood vessels. Additionally, the body pulling fluid from tissues to try and flush out excess glucose can dehydrate the skin.

   

7. Recurring Infections: Hyperglycemia weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), yeast infections, and skin infections. These infections may also be more difficult to treat when blood sugar levels are elevated.

8. Unexplained Weight Loss: Although it may seem counterintuitive, high blood sugar can sometimes lead to unexplained weight loss, especially in type 1 diabetes. When the body can't use glucose for energy, it may start breaking down muscle and fat for fuel, resulting in unintentional weight loss. A Practical Guide For Persons With Diabetes On Managing Blood Sugar Levels

Why is it important to know these signs?

Recognizing these warning signs is crucial for several reasons:

• Early Intervention: Early detection allows for prompt medical evaluation and management, preventing the progression of prediabetes to type 2 diabetes, or mitigating complications in those already diagnosed.
• Prevention of Complications: Controlling high blood sugar can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), and eye damage (retinopathy).
• Improved Quality of Life: Managing blood sugar levels can lead to increased energy, improved mood, and a better overall quality of life.
• Reduced Healthcare Costs: Proactive management of hyperglycemia can minimize the need for costly medical interventions and hospitalizations down the line.

What To Do If You Suspect High Blood Sugar

If you experience several of these symptoms consistently, it's imperative to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may order blood tests, such as a fasting plasma glucose test, an A1C test, or an oral glucose tolerance test, to determine your blood sugar levels and diagnose any underlying conditions.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations:

• Monitor your blood sugar: If you have a glucose meter, regularly check your blood sugar levels and keep a record of the results.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body flush out excess glucose.
• Follow a balanced diet: Choose whole, unprocessed foods, and limit sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats.
• Engage in regular physical activity: Exercise can help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Managing Blood Sugar Levels

Managing high blood sugar typically involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medication, and regular monitoring. The specific treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause of the hyperglycemia and individual needs.

Management Strategy	Description
Dietary Changes	Following a meal plan that emphasizes non-starchy vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Limit sugary drinks and processed foods.
Regular Exercise	Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week to improve insulin sensitivity.
Medication	Oral medications or insulin injections may be necessary to help lower blood sugar levels, particularly in people with diabetes.
Regular Monitoring	Using a blood glucose meter to check blood sugar levels regularly helps track the effectiveness of treatment and make necessary adjustments.
Stress Management	High stress levels can elevate blood sugar. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help manage stress.

Conclusion

Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is a condition that should never be ignored. By recognizing the eight warning signs discussed in this article – increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, dry skin, recurring infections, and unexplained weight loss – you can take proactive steps to manage your health and prevent long-term complications. Regular monitoring, a healthy lifestyle, and prompt medical attention are key to keeping your blood sugar levels within a healthy range and maintaining your overall well-being. Remember, being informed is the first step toward better health management. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your blood sugar levels.

By Rachael C. Passmore, D.O.