High Blood Sugar Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, is a condition where the level of glucose in the blood is too high. It's a common issue for people with diabetes, but it can also affect those without a diagnosed condition. Recognizing the symptoms of high blood sugar is crucial for managing your health and preventing serious complications. This article will cover the critical signs you should be aware of and when to seek medical attention.

High blood sugar occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces (Type 2 diabetes). Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose from food get into your cells to be used for energy. When glucose can't enter the cells, it builds up in the bloodstream.

Why Ignoring High Blood Sugar Is Dangerous

Ignoring the symptoms of high blood sugar can lead to several short-term and long-term health problems: Surprising Factors Affecting Blood Sugar Levels Besides Food

• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A life-threatening condition, primarily in Type 1 diabetics, where the body starts breaking down fat for energy, producing ketones that can poison the body.
• Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS): Mostly in Type 2 diabetics, HHS is a severe condition marked by extremely high blood sugar levels, dehydration, and confusion.
• Long-Term Complications: Chronic high blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves, leading to heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), eye damage (retinopathy), and poor wound healing.

Recognizing the Early Signs of High Blood Sugar

The earlier you recognize and manage high blood sugar, the better you can prevent serious health issues. Here are the initial symptoms you should watch out for:

1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria)

One of the most common symptoms of high blood sugar is the need to urinate frequently, especially at night. This happens because the kidneys are trying to remove excess glucose from the blood by flushing it out through urine.

• Why it happens: When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys have to work harder to filter the glucose. This process draws more water into the urine, leading to increased urination.
• Example: You may find yourself waking up multiple times during the night to use the bathroom, even if you haven't increased your fluid intake.

2. Increased Thirst (Polydipsia)

Frequent urination leads to dehydration, which causes increased thirst. You may feel constantly thirsty, no matter how much you drink.

• Why it happens: As the kidneys flush out excess glucose through urine, they also remove fluids, leading to dehydration. The body signals the need for more fluids, resulting in excessive thirst.
• Example: You might find yourself constantly reaching for water, even after you've already had several glasses.

3. Unexplained Fatigue

High blood sugar can cause you to feel unusually tired or fatigued, even after getting enough sleep.

• Why it happens: When glucose cannot enter the cells due to insulin resistance or deficiency, the body's cells don't get the energy they need, leading to fatigue.
• Example: You may experience persistent tiredness that doesn't improve with rest and feel drained throughout the day.

4. Blurred Vision

High blood sugar can affect the lenses in your eyes, leading to blurred vision.

• Why it happens: Elevated glucose levels can cause fluid to be pulled into the lens of the eye, causing it to swell and change shape. This distortion affects your ability to focus properly.
• Example: You may notice that your vision becomes blurry or that you have difficulty focusing on objects, especially up close.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss

This is more common in Type 1 diabetes but can also occur in Type 2 diabetes. When your body can't use glucose for energy, it starts burning fat and muscle, leading to weight loss.

• Why it happens: With insufficient insulin, the body cannot use glucose for energy, and it turns to other sources such as fat and muscle. This breakdown leads to a decrease in body weight.
• Example: You might lose weight without intentionally dieting or increasing your physical activity.

Recognizing Advanced Symptoms of Hyperglycemia

If high blood sugar is left unmanaged, it can lead to more severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention:

1. Slow-Healing Sores or Cuts

High blood sugar can impair blood flow and nerve function, which can slow down the healing process of wounds.

• Why it happens: High glucose levels damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the affected area. Additionally, nerve damage can impair the body's ability to heal properly.
• Example: Cuts, scrapes, or sores take longer to heal than usual, and you might notice frequent infections.

2. Frequent Infections

Hyperglycemia can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.

• Why it happens: High glucose levels can interfere with the function of immune cells, such as white blood cells, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.
• Example: You might experience frequent urinary tract infections, yeast infections, or skin infections.

3. Dry, Itchy Skin

High blood sugar can cause dehydration and poor circulation, leading to dry, itchy skin.

• Why it happens: Reduced blood flow and dehydration contribute to dryness and itching, as the skin doesn't receive enough moisture and nutrients.
• Example: You might notice that your skin is persistently dry and itchy, especially on your legs, feet, and elbows.

4. Numbness or Tingling in Hands and Feet (Neuropathy)

Long-term high blood sugar can damage nerves, leading to a condition called peripheral neuropathy.

• Why it happens: High glucose levels can damage the small blood vessels that supply nerves, leading to nerve damage.
• Example: You might experience numbness, tingling, burning, or sharp pains in your hands and feet. This can progress over time and become debilitating.

5. Stomach Problems

Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

• Why it happens: Hyperglycemia can affect the nerves that control digestion, leading to gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach empties too slowly.
• Example: You might experience frequent episodes of nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.

Diagnosing and Managing High Blood Sugar

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it’s essential to get your blood sugar tested. Here's how:

1. Blood Sugar Testing

• Fasting Blood Sugar Test: Measures your blood sugar after an overnight fast. A level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.
• A1C Test: Provides an average of your blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. An A1C of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
• Random Blood Sugar Test: Measures your blood sugar at any time of day without fasting. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher, along with symptoms of diabetes, indicates diabetes.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures your blood sugar before and after drinking a sugary liquid. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher after two hours indicates diabetes.

2. Managing High Blood Sugar

Managing high blood sugar involves lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Here are some strategies:

• Diet: Follow a balanced diet that is low in sugar and refined carbohydrates. Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
• Medication: If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor may prescribe medication, such as insulin or oral diabetes drugs, to help manage your blood sugar.
• Monitoring: Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels using a home glucose meter to track your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Lifestyle Adjustments to Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels involves consistent effort and lifestyle adjustments. These adjustments include:

Dietary Changes

Adopting a balanced and controlled diet is fundamental. Here’s what you should consider:

• Limit Sugary Drinks: Avoid sodas, sweetened juices, and energy drinks, as these can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar.
• Control Carbohydrate Intake: Choose complex carbohydrates over simple ones. Whole grains, vegetables, and legumes are preferable to white bread, pasta, and sugary cereals.
• Increase Fiber Intake: High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Choose Lean Proteins: Include lean sources of protein like chicken, fish, tofu, and beans in your diet.
• Healthy Fats: Opt for healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise is crucial for managing blood sugar and improving insulin sensitivity.

• Aerobic Exercise: Engage in activities like walking, running, swimming, or cycling for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
• Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises to build muscle mass, which can help improve insulin sensitivity.
• Stay Active Throughout the Day: Find ways to stay active even when you're not exercising, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking during your lunch break.

Regular Monitoring

Consistent monitoring of blood sugar levels helps in understanding how different foods and activities affect your glucose levels. The 5 Worst Foods That Sabotage Your Efforts To Lower Blood Sugar

• Home Glucose Monitoring: Use a home glucose meter to check your blood sugar levels regularly, especially before meals, after meals, and before bed.
• A1C Tests: Get regular A1C tests as recommended by your doctor to monitor your average blood sugar levels over time.
• Record Keeping: Keep a log of your blood sugar readings, diet, exercise, and medications to help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your treatment plan.

Stress Management

High stress levels can affect blood sugar levels. Here are some techniques to manage stress:

• Meditation: Practice mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
• Yoga: Engage in yoga to improve flexibility, reduce stress, and lower blood sugar levels.
• Deep Breathing Exercises: Use deep breathing techniques to calm your nervous system and lower stress.
• Hobbies: Engage in activities you enjoy, such as reading, gardening, or spending time with loved ones, to help reduce stress.

Proper Hydration

Staying adequately hydrated can help your kidneys flush out excess glucose through urine.

• Drink Plenty of Water: Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.
• Avoid Sugary Drinks: Limit your intake of sugary drinks and opt for water, herbal tea, or unsweetened beverages.

Get Enough Sleep

Poor sleep habits can affect blood sugar levels.

• Aim for 7-8 Hours of Sleep: Ensure you get enough sleep each night to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Establish a Bedtime Routine: Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you fall asleep more easily.
• Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol Before Bed: Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol before bed, as they can interfere with sleep.

Conclusion

Recognizing and managing high blood sugar is essential for preventing serious health complications. By being aware of the early and advanced symptoms and taking proactive steps to manage your blood sugar levels, you can live a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you suspect you have high blood sugar, consult your healthcare provider for testing and personalized advice. Stay informed, stay proactive, and take charge of your health. Hyperglycemia Explained 7 Warning Signs Your Blood Sugar Is Too High

By Rachael C. Passmore, D.O.