What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hyperglycemia?
October 4, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels, typically associated with diabetes mellitus, especially if it’s uncontrolled. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia is crucial for managing diabetes and preventing complications. Common signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia include:
- Increased Thirst (Polydipsia):
- Feeling excessively thirsty and needing to drink more fluids than usual.
- Frequent Urination (Polyuria):
- Urinating more frequently than normal, especially during the day and night.
- High Blood Glucose Readings:
- Elevated blood sugar levels, usually measured by a glucose meter, indicating higher than normal levels.
- Fatigue and Weakness:
- Feeling tired, weak, or lacking energy despite getting adequate rest.
- Blurred Vision:
- Changes in vision, making it difficult to focus or causing blurred vision.
- Increased Appetite (Polyphagia):
- Feeling hungry more frequently or having an increased appetite.
- Unexplained Weight Loss:
- Losing weight without a clear reason or changes in diet or physical activity.
- Slow Healing of Wounds:
- Cuts, sores, or wounds taking longer to heal than usual.
- Frequent Infections:
- Being more susceptible to infections, including skin, urinary tract, or yeast infections.
- Irritability and Mood Changes:
- Feeling irritable, anxious, or having sudden mood swings.
- Dry Mouth and Skin:
- Experiencing dry mouth, dry or itchy skin, or other skin issues.
- Nausea and Vomiting:
- Feeling nauseous or experiencing episodes of vomiting.
- Shortness of Breath:
- Feeling breathless or experiencing shallow breathing.
- Sweet or Fruity Breath:
- Having a sweet, fruity, or acetone-like smell to the breath, often associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
- Confusion or Difficulty Concentrating:
- Feeling confused or having trouble focusing or concentrating.
- Increased Heart Rate:
- Having a faster-than-normal heart rate or palpitations.
It’s important to note that the severity and combination of symptoms can vary based on the individual, the extent of hyperglycemia, and how long blood sugar levels have been elevated. If you suspect you are experiencing hyperglycemia or if you have diabetes and notice persistent high blood sugar levels, it’s crucial to monitor your blood glucose levels, follow your diabetes management plan, and contact your healthcare provider for guidance and adjustment of your treatment plan.
Managing hyperglycemia involves regular monitoring, medication adherence, a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and close collaboration with healthcare professionals to achieve and maintain optimal blood sugar levels.