A level below 5.7% is normal, while between 5.7% and 6.4% means you have prediabetes. Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas that allows cells to use glucose for generating energy and functioning normally. Managing diabetes is an ongoing and often lifelong endeavor. Typically, a doctor can look at a person’s self-monitored results, identify issues, and help individuals find ways to prevent severe spikes. These ketones can build up quickly to dangerously high levels in the body. Symptoms of DKA include increased thirst and urination, rapid and deep breathing, fruity-smelling breath, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.
As Dr. Emanuele says, glucose monitoring can be an important tool to help you get your blood sugar under control. That will help you and your doctor see how your treatment is working. If your doctor has diagnosed you with prediabetes, they’ll probably want to check your blood sugar levels once a year or more often. If a person with diabetes does not manage the sugar levels in their blood, they can develop a severe complication called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Depending on your diagnosis, you might qualify for a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). This small, wearable device automatically checks your blood glucose levels throughout the day and night.
They may need regular testing to keep these within a healthy range. Each person is different, and levels can vary between individuals. This article explores what hyperglycemia feels like, why it occurs, and the signs of high blood sugar.
You can also get high blood sugar if your diabetes medicine is not working well, you’re taking certain medicines (such as steroids) or you recently had an operation. It also improves your circulation and helps you keep your weight down. You may want to work at least 30 minutes of activity into your daily routine. If you think you may have DKA, you can test your urine for ketones using a test kit.
High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, can have serious consequences if left untreated. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so that you can take action before it becomes a more serious issue.
If you have high blood sugar, your doctor or care team may ask you to test your blood or pee to check for ketones. A high level of ketones is a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis. Diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage, is a serious complication of diabetes. It’s caused by high blood sugar levels over a long period of time.
Symptoms
One of the most common symptoms of high blood sugar is constant thirst. If you find yourself drinking more water than usual and still feeling dehydrated, it could be a sign that your sugar levels are too high. Frequent urination is another red flag, as your body tries to rid itself of the excess sugar through urine.
Unexplained weight loss is another symptom of high blood sugar. When your body can’t use glucose for energy, it starts burning fat and muscle instead, leading to weight loss. Fatigue and weakness are also common symptoms, as your cells aren’t getting the energy they need.
Other Signs
Blurred vision is another indicator of high blood sugar levels. The excess sugar in your bloodstream can cause the lens in your eye to swell, affecting your ability to focus. Slow-healing wounds and frequent infections are also signs that your sugar levels may be too high.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action. Untreated high blood sugar can lead to more serious complications such as diabetes and damage to organs like the kidneys and eyes. Monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly and making healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent high blood sugar and its associated risks.
