Surprising Signs of High Blood Sugar You Shouldn't Ignore (Hyperglycemia)

High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, occurs when your body has too much glucose in the blood. Often associated with diabetes, it's vital to recognize the early warning signs to prevent severe health complications. Understanding these indicators empowers you to take proactive steps toward better health. This article covers surprising and less commonly known signs of high blood sugar that should never be ignored.

What is Hyperglycemia and Why Does it Matter?

Hyperglycemia is not just a condition affecting people with diabetes; it can also occur in individuals with other medical conditions or during periods of significant stress. When blood sugar levels are consistently elevated, it can damage blood vessels, nerves, and organs, leading to conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, vision problems, and nerve damage. Identifying and managing high blood sugar is, therefore, critical for long-term well-being. A Beginner S Guide To Understanding Your Blood Sugar Range

Lesser-Known Symptoms of High Blood Sugar

While frequent urination and increased thirst are well-known symptoms, there are several lesser-known signs of high blood sugar that are equally important to recognize:

• Blurry Vision: Elevated blood sugar can cause fluid to shift in the eyes, leading to blurry vision. It's crucial to get your vision checked if you experience persistent blurriness.
• Slow-Healing Sores or Cuts: High glucose levels can impair blood circulation and nerve function, delaying the body's ability to heal.
• Frequent Infections: High blood sugar can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections, especially urinary tract infections and yeast infections.
• Dry, Itchy Skin: High blood sugar can pull moisture from the skin, leading to dryness and itching, which can sometimes be severe.
• Fatigue: While fatigue is a common symptom of many conditions, persistent exhaustion despite adequate rest could indicate high blood sugar levels.
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): In men, prolonged high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves, contributing to erectile dysfunction.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: In some cases, your body may start breaking down muscle for energy when it can't effectively use glucose, leading to unintentional weight loss.

Surprising Indicators You Might Be Overlooking

Beyond the commonly discussed symptoms, several surprising indicators could suggest your blood sugar levels are too high:

• Gum Disease: Hyperglycemia can exacerbate gum disease by promoting bacterial growth and weakening the gums. Bleeding gums or persistent gum infections should be taken seriously.
• Tingling or Numbness in Hands or Feet: High blood sugar can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy), causing tingling, numbness, or pain in the extremities.
• Gastroparesis: This condition occurs when high blood sugar damages the vagus nerve, which controls stomach emptying. This can lead to nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount.
• Skin Tags: Although not directly caused by high blood sugar, some studies suggest a correlation between insulin resistance and the development of skin tags.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience any of these symptoms persistently or in combination, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. A simple blood test can determine your blood sugar levels and help identify if you have hyperglycemia. A Beginner S Guide To Better Diabetes Management

How to Manage High Blood Sugar

Managing high blood sugar involves lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring. Here are some steps you can take: A Practical Guide To Achieving Normal Blood Sugar Levels For Type 2 Diabetes

1. Monitor Blood Sugar Regularly: If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar as directed by your healthcare provider.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive carbohydrates.
3. Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
4. Take Medications as Prescribed: If you have diabetes, follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding medication.
5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush out excess glucose.
6. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to manage stress, as stress can impact blood sugar levels.

Risk Factors for Developing Hyperglycemia

Understanding your risk factors can help you take preventive measures. Common risk factors for hyperglycemia include:

• Family History of Diabetes: If you have a close relative with diabetes, your risk is higher.
• Obesity: Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, increases the risk of insulin resistance.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can contribute to insulin resistance.
• Certain Medications: Some medications, like corticosteroids, can increase blood sugar levels.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS have an increased risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
• Age: The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age.

Complications of Uncontrolled Hyperglycemia

Leaving high blood sugar unmanaged can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications:

• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A serious condition that occurs when the body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones.
• Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS): A severe condition characterized by extremely high blood sugar levels, dehydration, and altered mental status.
• Cardiovascular Disease: Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
• Neuropathy: Nerve damage, leading to pain, numbness, and loss of function.
• Nephropathy: Kidney damage, potentially leading to kidney failure.
• Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to blindness.

Diagnostic Tests for Hyperglycemia

Several tests can be used to diagnose hyperglycemia:

• Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: Measures blood sugar levels after an overnight fast.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar levels two hours after drinking a sugary drink.
• A1C Test: Measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months.
• Random Plasma Glucose Test: Measures blood sugar levels at any time of day without fasting.

Summary Table of Symptoms and Actions (HTML Table Example)

Symptom	Possible Cause	Action
Blurry Vision	Fluid shift in the eyes due to **high blood sugar**	Consult an eye doctor and check blood sugar levels
Slow-Healing Sores	Impaired circulation and nerve function	Consult a doctor and monitor blood sugar
Frequent Infections	Weakened immune system	Consult a doctor and manage blood sugar
Dry, Itchy Skin	Dehydration due to **high blood sugar**	Hydrate and moisturize skin; check blood sugar levels
Tingling in Hands/Feet	Nerve damage (neuropathy)	Consult a doctor for neuropathy assessment and blood sugar control

Conclusion

Recognizing the surprising signs of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) is crucial for early detection and management. Being aware of these less commonly discussed symptoms and taking proactive steps to monitor and manage blood sugar can help prevent serious complications. If you suspect you may have hyperglycemia, consult with a healthcare professional to get an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Taking control of your health today can lead to a healthier future.

By Catherine Madaffari, M.D.