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About Elevated Blood Sugar

Blood sugar (or glucose) comes from the food we eat. It is used by the body to generate energy in the cells. Our bodies also store glucose in the liver for use between meals. In most people, normal blood sugar levels fall between 70 and 150. They are usually lower in the morning, before eating.

  1. What is High Blood Sugar?

    • High blood sugar (or hyperglycemia) is a condition where there is more sugar (or glucose) in the blood than the body can use. This usually happens with a condition known as diabetes mellitis, but there are other conditions (like Cushings' syndrome) that can also cause elevated levels.

    How Does it Happen?

    • Blood sugar levels are controlled by insulin, a hormone that allows sugar to enter the cells where it is converted into energy. Diabetics either don't produce insulin, or their bodies don't respond to it. This causes blood sugar levels to rise.

    How is it Measured?

    • Diabetics take their own blood sugar readings--several times a day--with a glucometer. A doctor can also take blood or urine readings in the office or lab. Most lab tests read fasting sugar levels, usually first thing in the morning. It should be taken at least 8 hours after your last meal.

    Why is it a problem?

    • Having consistently high blood sugar over a long period of time can cause a host of medical problems including damage to blood vessels which can lead to poor circulation and amputation. It may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. There is also danger of kidney disease, blindness and nerve damage.

    What are th e Signs and Symptoms?

    • Signs and symptoms of high blood sugar include frequent urination, increased hunger, increased thirst, blurred vision, fatigue, weight loss, and recurring infections (especially yeast infections).

    How is it Treated?

    • If high blood sugar is due to diabetes, a doctor will prescribe either insulin or a drug that will help your body use the insulin it already produces. If high blood sugar is due to other conditions, then individual treatment of those conditions can resolve the problem.

      If you are a diabetic in treatment and are experiencing consistently high readings--or having trouble keeping your blood sugar under control--consult your Doctor.

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