Hyperglycemia is the technical term for when blood-glucose levels (or blood-sugar levels) are too high because the body isn't properly using or doesn't make the hormone insulin. The symptoms of hyperglycemia develop slowly, over a period of hours or even days. Hyperglycemia doesn't even cause symptoms until glucose levels are significantly high ? above 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), or 11 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). The longer blood-glucose levels stay high, the more serious the symptoms become.
Symptoms of hyperglycemia include :- Blood glucose over 200 mg/dL
- More urine output than usual
- Increased thirst
- Dry skin and mouth
- Decreased appetite, nausea, or vomiting
- Fatigue, drowsiness, or lethargy
If hyperglycemia goes untreated, it can cause:
- Fruity-smelling breath
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dry mouth
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Buildup of toxic acids (called ketones) in your blood and urine
- Coma
The dangerously high blood-glucose levels of hyperglycemia can result from:
- Not taking enough insulin
- An illness such as a cold or the flu
- An infection
- Eating too much
- Excessive stress
- Taking certain medications
How to Avoid Hyperglycemia
To avoid episodes of hyperglycemia, take your usual insulin exactly as prescribed by your doctor (do not skip a dose!) and eat regular, balanced meals.
Next Step: How to Treat Low Blood Sugar
