Learn about hyperglycemia, a condition where there is too much glucose in the bloodstream due to an insulin deficiency or resistance.
Hyperglycemia occurs when there is an excess of glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. This can happen when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or when it can’t use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. When there is not enough insulin or it doesn’t work properly, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Hyperglycemia occurs when there is an excess of glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. This can happen in various forms of diabetes, including type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes experience high blood sugar because their bodies don’t produce insulin. On the other hand, individuals with type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes may have adequate insulin, but their cells and muscles can’t absorb it properly due to insulin resistance.
How Is Hyperglycemia Diagnosed?
Hyperglycemia is usually diagnosed through a blood test that measures your blood sugar levels. One common test is the A1C test, which measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.
A normal A1C level is below 5.7 percent, while a level of 5.7 to 6.4 percent indicates prediabetes, and 6.5 percent or higher indicates diabetes. Your healthcare provider may also consider your symptoms and medical history.
It’s important to get regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor your blood sugar levels, especially if you have risk factors for diabetes or have a family history of the condition.
Common Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Sugar
Some common signs of high blood sugar include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Health Consequences of High Blood Sugar
If left untreated, high blood sugar can lead to life-threatening conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome (HHS). DKA occurs when your body breaks down large amounts of fat at once, leading to the accumulation of ketones in your bloodstream. Symptoms of DKA include dry mouth, fruity-smelling breath, nausea, shortness of breath, anxiety, and vomiting.
HHS can occur when your blood glucose readings are very high (600 mg/dL or higher), leading to severe dehydration. Both DKA and HHS are considered emergencies and require immediate medical attention.
Different Causes of High Blood Sugar
Several factors can contribute to high blood sugar, including a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates, lack of
physical activity, stress, and certain medical conditions. It’s important to identify and address the underlying cause of high blood sugar to effectively manage the condition.
Are You at Risk for High Blood Sugar?
You may be at risk for high blood sugar if you have a family history of diabetes, are overweight, or lead a sedentary lifestyle. Other risk factors include age, ethnicity, and gestational diabetes. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help you monitor your blood sugar levels and assess your risk.
Best Foods to Eat to Help Avoid or Lower Your High Blood Sugar
To help avoid or lower your high blood sugar, focus on eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks, and limit your intake of refined carbohydrates. It’s also important to pay attention to portion sizes and meal timing to help regulate blood sugar levels.
How Lifestyle Changes Can Also Help You Avoid Hyperglycemia
In addition to eating a healthy diet, regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your insulin sensitivity. Managing stress and getting enough sleep are also important factors in preventing high blood sugar.
By making these simple changes to your lifestyle, you can help prevent, detect, and treat high blood sugar, reducing your risk of developing complications associated with hyperglycemia.
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