Hyperglycemia

Causes, Symptoms, Signs and Treatment

Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs when the blood has too much sugar in it. This usually happens when there is too little or not enough insulin (usually when someone has type 1 diabetes), or when the insulin is not used properly (usually when someone has type 2 diabetes). Blood glucose over 180 mg/dL is considered too high.

Causes

The condition can be caused in a variety of ways:

• Inadequate Insulin Injection (type diabetes)
• Over eating
• Under Exercising
• Stress from Illness
• Stress from Life (family, work, social)

Signs and Symptoms

Often, someone will not know they have high blood sugar until they check. Other symptoms or signs include excessive thirst, fatigue, blurry vision, frequent urination and an upset stomach (if very high).

If the condition is not treated promptly, the sugar can build up ultimately leading to a coma, often referred to as diabetic ketoacidosis, requiring immediate emergency medical care.

Symptoms that ketoacidosis may be imminent are shortness of breath, fruity smelling breath, nausea, vomiting, and a very dry mouth.

Treatment

Treating high blood sugar is very individualized and people should consult with their physician in advance to establish a game plan if the condition develops.

Exercise can help, but only if there are no ketones in the urine, otherwise it can do more harm.

Diabetes Diet changes and medications can also help.