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High Blood Sugar Problems

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) occurs occasionally in otherwise healthy individuals as a result of a diet change, lack of exercise or stress. However, when high blood sugar occurs on a frequent basis, it may signal a more serious physical condition. If you experience hyperglycemia and you are not diabetic, early diet and lifestyle intervention may protect your health.

  1. Features

    • Hyperglycemia is determined by the amount of glucose present in your blood. Any blood sugar reading over 180 mg/dl (milligrams/deciliter) falls into the range of hyperglycemia and the higher the reading, the more serious the condition.

    Symptoms

    • Slightly elevated blood sugar readings may cause few physical symptoms in most people but as the amount of glucose in the bloodstream increases, the patient may experience an increased need to urinate and excessive thirst. If the level of glucose is high, dizziness and fatigue may occur and the patient may find it difficult to wake up after a sufficient amount of sleep. When blood sugar levels spike above 250 mg/dl, the patient may become dehydrated, experience heart palpitations, have vision problems and lose consciousness.

    Causes

    • Diabetes is the most prominent cause of high blood sugar as the diabetic's ability to produce insulin drops and the level of glucose in his blood rises. Eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa, may cause acute but temporary high blood sugar levels after the patient binges on high carbohydrate foods. Heart disease or circulatory problems increase the risk of developing hyperglycemia and some supplements, such as niacin or L- asparaginase may elevate glucose levels.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Diabetics must closely monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their insulin dosage to match their need. In addition, avoiding high sugar foods reduces your risk. Daily exercise, thirty minutes or longer, is recommended and quitting smoking will greatly reduce your risk of developing chronic high blood sugar, as your circulation improves. Maintaining a healthy cholesterol level and a healthy blood pressure will also improve your chances of avoiding hyperglycemia.

    Monitoring

    • Patients who are diagnosed with hyperglycemia can monitor their blood sugar levels at home. Today's glucose meters are relatively painless and much easier to use than those of a decade ago (See Resources).

    Warning

    • If you experience the symptoms of high blood pressure frequently or you are diabetic and your blood sugar levels are too high, consult your doctor promptly. An acute case of hyperglycemia can be the result of an infection, an injury or a recent surgery.

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