Signs & Symptoms of High Blood Glucose

Having high blood glucose can have serious health consequences such as damage to blood vessels and nerves. It is often a symptom of diabetes, and a diabetic person can have even more problems. It's important to know and watch for the signs and take action immediately.

Fatigue

• When a person has a high blood glucose level, it means something is preventing the glucose from leaving the blood and being used for energy. With this lack of energy, a person with high blood glucose will feel much more tired than usual.

Increased Thirst and Urination

• With high blood glucose, the body attempts to eliminate the excess sugar through the kidneys. If a person has a high blood glucose level, they will have to urinate much more often, and in greater amounts. Also, with excess sugar levels, the body reacts by making you feel thirsty, and consuming excess liquids will also increase the amount of urination.

Blurred Vision

• Excess blood glucose in the retinal blood vessels can cause a person's vision to be blurred. It is important to watch for this symptom as, over time, this can cause serious damage to the eyes and may permanently damage the eyesight.

Weight Loss

• If high blood glucose levels are a result of the body's inability to use insulin, the body cannot use the glucose for energy, and the body will start to use fat and muscle stores instead. This can lead to unexplained weight loss. A person may find they are losing weight even though they have not changed their diet.

Treatment

• If you suspect you may have an elevated blood glucose level, it is important to have your blood checked as you may have diabetes. If you have already been diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to follow a proper diet and, if necessary, get insulin injections to maintain a healthy blood glucose level.