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What Can Cause a Sudden Increase in High Blood Sugar & Lethargy?

Hyperglycemia, a sudden increase in high blood sugar, typically occurs as a complication of diabetes. Hyperglycemia requires prompt treatment to avoid serious complications such as diabetic coma or even death.

  1. Considerations

    • Hyperglycemia may occur as the result of overeating, inactivity, inadequate dosages of insulin, illness or stress. Ketoacidosis, a complication of hyperglycemia, may occur as a result of not eating enough food.

    Features

    • Hyperglycemia often causes symptoms such as extreme thirst and frequent need to urinate. If the condition progresses into ketoacidosis, symptoms such as lethargy, flushing, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth and fruity-smelling breath may occur.

    Time Frame

    • Hyperglycemia should be treated as soon as possible, especially when blood glucose levels are greater than 240 mg/dl.

    Treatment

    • According to the American Diabetes Association, exercise should be avoided when blood glucose levels are higher than 240 mg/dl because exercise may raise glucose levels even more. Hyperglycemia most often requires treatment with insulin. However, if symptoms of ketoacidosis are present, seek emergency medical care as soon as possible.

    Warning

    • Untreated hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis may result in lethargy and possibly even coma. Early treatment is necessary to return to normal consciousness.

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