High blood sugar

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

High Blood Sugar (also known as Hyperglycemia) is a condition in which an excessive amount of glucose circulates in the blood plasma. This is generally a blood sugar level higher than 11.1 mmol/l (200 mg/dl), but symptoms may not start to become noticeable until even higher values such as 15–20 mmol/l (~250–300 mg/dl).

Causes[edit | edit source]

High blood sugar can be caused by a number of factors, including:

  • Diabetes: This is the most common cause. Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases in which a person has high blood sugar, either because the body does not produce enough insulin, or because cells do not respond to the insulin that is produced.
  • Stress: Stress can also cause blood sugar to rise. This is because the hormones the body produces in response to prolonged stress may prevent insulin from working properly.
  • Diet: Consuming too many carbohydrates, especially refined and sugary foods, can lead to high blood sugar.
  • Lack of Exercise: Regular physical activity helps the body use insulin more efficiently.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of high blood sugar can include:

  • Frequent urination
  • Increased thirst
  • Blurred vision
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
  • Weight loss despite eating more (type 1 diabetes)

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for high blood sugar typically involves:

  • Medication: If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor may prescribe medications to lower your blood sugar.
  • Insulin therapy: Some people with diabetes require daily insulin injections to control their blood sugar levels.
  • Dietary changes: Eating a healthy diet can help keep your blood sugar levels in check.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity can help lower your blood sugar level.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention strategies for high blood sugar include:

  • Regular check-ups with your doctor
  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Taking medication as prescribed

See Also[edit | edit source]

High blood sugar Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD