High Blood Sugar Symptoms: 9 Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

13 Sep 2025

High Blood Sugar Symptoms: 9 Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, occurs when there's too much glucose in the blood. This can happen for various reasons, most commonly in people with diabetes, but it can also affect those without a diagnosed condition. Ignoring high blood sugar symptoms can lead to serious health complications over time. Recognizing the early warning signs and taking appropriate action is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. This article explores nine key symptoms of high blood sugar that you should never ignore.

Why High Blood Sugar Matters

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is essential for optimal body function. Glucose is the primary source of energy for our cells, and insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy. When blood sugar levels are consistently high, it can damage various organs and systems in the body, including:

  • Nerves: Neuropathy (nerve damage) can cause numbness, tingling, and pain, particularly in the hands and feet.
  • Kidneys: Nephropathy (kidney damage) can lead to kidney failure and the need for dialysis.
  • Eyes: Retinopathy (eye damage) can cause vision problems and even blindness.
  • Cardiovascular System: Increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

The following table illustrates the normal and high blood sugar ranges for people with and without diabetes:

| Category | Fasting Blood Sugar (mg/dL) | 2 Hours After Eating (mg/dL) | | ------------------------- | -------------------------- | ---------------------------- | | Normal (No Diabetes) | Less than 100 | Less than 140 | | Prediabetes | 100 to 125 | 140 to 199 | | Diabetes | 126 or higher | 200 or higher |

9 Warning Signs of High Blood Sugar

It's important to recognize these symptoms early. While some might be subtle, paying attention to them can help you manage your health proactively.

1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria)

One of the earliest and most noticeable symptoms of high blood sugar is the need to urinate more often than usual, especially at night. This is because the kidneys are trying to get rid of excess glucose through urine. As glucose levels rise, the kidneys work harder to filter the blood, leading to increased urine production.

Example: You might find yourself waking up several times during the night to use the bathroom, even if you haven't increased your fluid intake. The Ultimate Guide To Managing Type 2 Diabetes And Blood Sugar

2. Increased Thirst (Polydipsia)

Because your body is losing fluids through frequent urination, you'll likely feel excessively thirsty. This is your body's way of trying to replenish the lost fluids and maintain proper hydration.

Example: Constantly reaching for water or other beverages, even after drinking a large glass, can be a sign.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

High blood sugar can prevent your body from effectively using glucose for energy, causing it to burn fat and muscle for fuel instead. This can lead to unintentional weight loss, even if your eating habits haven't changed.

Example: Losing a significant amount of weight without dieting or exercising more could indicate a problem with your blood sugar levels. A Beginner S Guide To Managing Postprandial Blood Sugar After Meal Spikes

4. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia)

Even though your blood sugar levels are high, your cells might not be getting enough glucose for energy. This can lead to persistent feelings of hunger, even after eating a meal.

Example: Feeling hungry shortly after eating a full meal or experiencing intense cravings can be a sign.

5. Blurred Vision

High blood sugar can cause fluid to be drawn from the lenses of your eyes, leading to temporary blurred vision. This effect can fluctuate as your blood sugar levels change. Over time, consistently high blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to more severe vision problems.

Example: Difficulty focusing on objects, seeing halos around lights, or experiencing fluctuating vision clarity.

6. Fatigue

When your cells aren't receiving the energy they need due to high blood sugar, you might experience persistent fatigue and tiredness, even after getting adequate rest. This can significantly impact your daily activities and overall quality of life.

Example: Feeling unusually tired, even after a full night's sleep, or struggling to perform everyday tasks due to lack of energy.

7. Slow-Healing Sores or Cuts

High blood sugar can impair blood circulation and nerve function, which can slow down the healing process. Even minor cuts or sores might take longer to heal, increasing the risk of infection.

Example: Noticing that small cuts or bruises are taking longer than usual to heal, or experiencing recurring infections.

8. Frequent Infections

High blood sugar can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections, such as yeast infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.

Example: Experiencing recurrent infections, such as yeast infections in women or frequent UTIs.

9. Dry, Itchy Skin

High blood sugar can cause dry and itchy skin. This is because high glucose levels can draw moisture away from the skin, leading to dryness and irritation. In addition, poor circulation due to high blood sugar can further contribute to skin problems.

Example: Experiencing persistent itching, dryness, or flaky skin, especially on the legs and feet.

What to Do If You Experience These Symptoms

If you're experiencing several of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. They can perform a blood sugar test to determine your glucose levels and diagnose any underlying conditions, such as diabetes or prediabetes.

Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Schedule a doctor's appointment: Describe your symptoms to your doctor and ask for a blood sugar test.
  2. Monitor your blood sugar (if advised by your doctor): If you have a glucose meter, follow your doctor's instructions for monitoring your blood sugar levels at home.

  3. Make lifestyle changes: If your blood sugar is high, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes such as:

    • Dietary adjustments: Focus on a balanced diet low in sugar and processed foods.
    • Regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
    • Weight management: If you're overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can improve blood sugar control.
    • Follow your doctor's treatment plan: If you're diagnosed with diabetes, follow your doctor's prescribed treatment plan, which may include medication, insulin therapy, and regular check-ups.

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Blood Sugar

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits is essential for managing blood sugar levels and preventing long-term complications. These habits can include:

  • Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats. Portion control is also important.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar levels. Aim for a mix of aerobic exercise (like walking or running) and strength training.
  • Stress Management: High stress levels can increase blood sugar. Practices like meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature can help.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help your kidneys flush out excess glucose.

Example Meal Plan for Maintaining Healthy Blood Sugar:

| Meal | Food Items | | ----------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Breakfast | Oatmeal with berries and nuts | | Lunch | Salad with grilled chicken or fish, mixed greens, and a light vinaigrette dressing | | Dinner | Baked salmon with steamed vegetables and quinoa | | Snacks | A handful of almonds, Greek yogurt with fruit |

Debunking Myths About High Blood Sugar

There are many misconceptions about high blood sugar and diabetes. Here are some common myths debunked: The Difference Between Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes Explained

  • Myth: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.
    • Fact: While a diet high in sugary foods and drinks can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, diabetes is a complex condition with multiple risk factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
  • Myth: People with diabetes can't eat any carbohydrates.
    • Fact: People with diabetes can eat carbohydrates, but they need to be mindful of the amount and type of carbohydrates they consume. Choosing complex carbohydrates (such as whole grains) over simple carbohydrates (such as sugary drinks) is generally recommended.
  • Myth: Diabetes is not a serious condition.
    • Fact: Diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision loss. However, with proper management and lifestyle changes, many of these complications can be prevented or delayed.

Conclusion

Recognizing the warning signs of high blood sugar and taking prompt action is vital for protecting your health. By being aware of these symptoms and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can take proactive steps to manage your blood sugar levels and prevent long-term complications. Don't ignore these warning signs – your health depends on it.

By Nadine A. Elhage, D.O.