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Hyperglycemia Treatment

People with diabetes have to follow a strict regimen of blood glucose testing and healthy eating in order to keep their disease under control. Some may even require medication or insulin injections if diabetes cannot be controlled by other means. Having a consistently high level of blood glucose is called hyperglycemia, which, if left untreated, could cause serious complications and even death.

  1. Types of Hyperglycemia

    • There are two distinct types of hyperglycemia: fasting hyperglycemia, where the blood glucose level is above 90 milligrams per deciliter after not eating for 8 hours; and postprandial hyperglycemia, where the blood glucose level exceeds 180 milligrams per deciliter.

    Causes

    • Hyperglycemia is not necessarily a problem with glucose production in the body, but is most often caused by outside sources. If you forget to take your regular insulin shot or medication, it can lead to elevated blood glucose levels. Increased stress, eating high carbohydrate or high calorie foods can also lead to hyperglycemia. If you suddenly slow or stop a regular exercise regimen, it can also lead to increased blood glucose levels.

    Symptoms

    • When hyperglycemia first appears, the symptoms are rather mild and consist of excessive thirst, blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, the frequent need to urinate, and headaches. If the condition continues without treatment, the symptoms could worsen to skin infections, decreased vision, nerve damage and intestinal problems.

    Ketoacidosis

    • If the hyperglycemia continues to get worse, it can lead to ketoacidosis, in which high levels of acid are found in the blood and urine. Ketoacidosis is a very serious disorder that can lead to coma or death if left untreated. It is imperative if you develop signs of hyperglycemia that you check your blood glucose immediately and contact a physician if it does not decrease over time.

    Treatment

    • One of the easiest ways to treat hyperglycemia is to simply drink more water and help flush the excess glucose out of your system. You should also watch your diet and change your carbohydrate levels if you glucose levels do not decrease. Exercise will also lower blood glucose levels, but if you suspect you may have ketoacidosis, it is imperative not to exercise as it will actually cause your levels to increase, according to the American Diabetes Association. Ketoacidosis should be treated at a hospital under the care of a qualified physician.

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