How to Reverse High Blood Sugar

Diabetes and other conditions affect the way the body handles glucose, preventing glucose from being transferred to cells and used for energy. When glucose isn't transferred to cells, it builds up in the blood; this is referred to as high blood sugar, high blood glucose or hyperglycemia. Stress, illness, hormone levels, missed medication and ingesting more carbohydrates than normal can cause hyperglycemia in diabetics. In non-diabetics, hyperglycemia can be caused by specific medications or medical conditions. Signs of hyperglycemia include excessive thirst, headaches, fatigue, blurred vision and frequent urination. Because both short- and long-term effects of hyperglycemia are dangerous, those who suffer from it must monitor and control their blood glucose levels.

Instructions

• 1

  Check your blood glucose frequently. As time goes by, you will develop a sense of how your body reacts to food, activity and medication. Once you know this, you will be better equipped to handle blood sugar fluctuations.

• 2

  Increase your physical activity. Regular exercise can help you maintain even blood sugar levels. Tell your doctor about any exercise routine you intend to begin; he can provide guidance on the best types of and times for activity relative to your specific situation.

• 3

  Eat a variety of healthy foods and avoid excess sugar. To maintain healthy blood glucose levels, "try to eat the same amount of food with the same proportion of carbohydrates, proteins and fats at the same time every day" advises the Mayo Clinic. Despite the common belief that diabetics should never eat sweets, it is okay to have the occasional treat as long as you balance it with healthier choices.

• 4

  Take prescribed medications consistently. Do not skip doses. Diabetes is frequently treated with oral medications or injected insulin. These medications will help you control your blood glucose, but they work well only if taken as prescribed. If you feel the medication is not working as it should, contact your physician to see if another medication might be more appropriate for you.

• 5

  Drink more water. If your blood glucose is high, drinking additional water will help your body flush the excess glucose out of your system. Also, due to the negative effects diabetes has on the kidneys, diabetics are prone to dehydration. An increase in water consumption can help prevent this.