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Hyperglycemia

Hyperglycemia
Alternative Names: 

High blood sugar

Definition: 

Hyperglycemia is a term used to define elevated levels of glucose, or sugar, in the blood. Hyperglycemia is a sign and complication of diabetes, a set of conditions in which the body either does not produce or does not properly use the hormone insulin.

Insulin is responsible for transporting glucose out of the blood stream and into cells where it is used as energy, and when this process does not occur properly, too much glucose remains in the blood. High blood sugar levels can pose serious and potentially life-threatening complications.

Symptoms: 

Some of the symptoms of hyperglycemia may include:

Exams/Testing: 

A key component of preventing hyperglycemia in diabetic patients is the regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. Most diabetic patients can conduct blood sugar level tests on their own through the use of blood glucose meters. Blood glucose meters are small, hand-held devices that extract a tiny drop of blood usually from a patient’s finger and then measure the sample to determine the patient’s blood sugar levels.

Patients may also conduct home urine tests for the presence of ketones, which are waste products that may signal dangerous blood sugar level complications. Patients with type 2 diabetes are more likely to experience ketones in urine.

Outlook/Prognosis: 

Hyperglycemia can be prevented through proper diabetes treatment and regular blood sugar monitoring. Key components of treatment are a proper diet and exercise. Patients may also manage their blood sugar levels through the use of oral diabetic medications or insulin therapy.

If patients experience hyperglycemia, they may reduce their blood sugar levels by exercising. However, if patients detect ketones in their urine, they should not exercise, as this may increase the risk of dangerous complications.

If hyperglycemia is left untreated, patients may be at risk of developing ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition in which toxic levels of waste products build up in the body. Patients may also be at risk of developing a condition known as hyperosmolar syndrome, in which high blood sugar levels cause the blood to become thick and syrupy.

In addition to the symptoms of hyperglycemia listed above, patients with either of these conditions may experience the following:

  • Confusion
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Extremely dry mouth
  • Fruity smell on the breath
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness located on one side of the body
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