Maintaining balanced blood sugar levels is essential for optimal health. However, when blood sugar levels rise above normal, it can lead to a condition known as hyperglycaemia, or high blood sugar. Recognizing the signs of blood sugar high early is vital for preventing serious health complications. This article will explore the common high blood sugar signs, their causes, and how to effectively manage high blood sugar levels to prevent long-term damage to your body.
What Are the Signs of Blood Sugar High?
High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycaemia, occurs when there is an excess of glucose in the bloodstream. Healthy blood sugar levels typically range between 70 and 100 mg/dL when fasting. Blood sugar levels above 180 mg/dL after eating are considered high. When blood sugar levels stay elevated for prolonged periods, they can cause damage to various organs and systems in the body, leading to serious complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.
The signs and symptoms of high blood sugar can vary depending on how high the blood sugar is and how long it has been elevated. While some people may experience only mild symptoms, others may suffer from more severe effects that require immediate treatment. Below are some of the most common high blood sugar signs to look out for:
- Increased Thirst (Polydipsia)
One of the earliest and most common high blood sugar signs is excessive thirst. When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys work overtime to filter and absorb the excess glucose. This can lead to frequent urination, causing dehydration and triggering intense thirst. You may feel the urge to drink large amounts of water, juice, or other fluids to quench this thirst. - Frequent Urination (Polyuria)
Another common symptom of high blood sugar is frequent urination. As mentioned, when blood sugar levels are elevated, the kidneys attempt to remove the excess glucose from the bloodstream by producing more urine. This can lead to increased bathroom visits throughout the day and night, which can also contribute to dehydration. - Fatigue
High blood sugar can lead to a feeling of constant tiredness or fatigue. When the body is unable to properly use glucose for energy due to a lack of insulin or insulin resistance, you may feel sluggish, weak, and mentally drained. Even after resting or sleeping, you may still experience low energy levels. - Blurred Vision
Elevated blood sugar levels can cause fluid to shift in the lenses of your eyes, affecting your ability to focus clearly. This may result in blurry vision or difficulty seeing things at a distance. If left untreated, prolonged high blood sugar can lead to more severe eye complications, such as diabetic retinopathy, which can damage the blood vessels in the retina. - Headaches
Another symptom of high blood sugar is frequent headaches. High blood sugar can lead to dehydration, which can trigger headaches. Moreover, fluctuations in blood glucose levels can impact brain function, further contributing to the discomfort. - Slow Healing of Wounds or Infections
High blood sugar can impair the body’s ability to heal wounds or fight infections. When blood sugar levels are consistently elevated, the immune system may not function optimally, making it harder for the body to repair damaged tissue and combat infections. If you notice that cuts, bruises, or scrapes take longer to heal than usual, it could be a sign of high blood sugar. - Nausea and Vomiting
When blood sugar levels are severely high, some people experience nausea or vomiting. This can occur when the body starts breaking down fat for energy due to an inability to use glucose properly. In extreme cases, this can lead to a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. - Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is another sign of high blood sugar, especially in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes. When the body cannot use glucose effectively due to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production, it starts breaking down fat and muscle for energy. This can lead to noticeable weight loss, even if there has been no significant change in diet or exercise habits. - Increased Hunger (Polyphagia)
Despite having high blood sugar, you may feel hungrier than usual. This is because the body is unable to properly use glucose as energy, causing you to crave more food in an attempt to satisfy the energy deficit. Increased hunger combined with high blood sugar can lead to overeating, further exacerbating the condition. - Darkened Skin (Acanthosis Nigricans)
A less common but notable symptom of high blood sugar is the development of darkened skin in certain areas, particularly around the neck, armpits, and groin. This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, is often associated with insulin resistance and can be an early warning sign of type 2 diabetes.
Causes of High Blood Sugar
Several factors can contribute to high blood sugar levels. Some of the most common causes include:
- Insulin Resistance or Insufficient Insulin Production
In individuals with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, the body either does not respond to insulin properly or does not produce enough insulin. This results in elevated blood sugar levels, as glucose is unable to enter cells and be used for energy. - Lack of Physical Activity
Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and allowing cells to absorb glucose. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to insulin resistance and higher blood sugar levels. - Poor Diet
Consuming a diet high in refined carbohydrates, sugary foods, and unhealthy fats can cause blood sugar levels to spike. Eating too much food in one sitting or not eating balanced meals can also contribute to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. - Stress
Stress activates the body’s “fight or flight” response, releasing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can cause blood sugar to rise, especially in individuals with diabetes or those prone to hyperglycaemia. - Medications
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can elevate blood sugar levels. If you are taking medication that affects your blood sugar, it’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your levels and make necessary adjustments. - Illness or Infection
Infections or illnesses, such as the flu or cold, can raise blood sugar levels. The body’s response to illness increases the production of stress hormones, which can interfere with insulin effectiveness and elevate glucose levels.
What to Do When High Blood Sugar Occurs
If you notice symptoms of high blood sugar, it’s important to act immediately to bring your levels down. Here are steps you can take:
- Check Your Blood Sugar
The first step in addressing high blood sugar is to check your blood sugar level using a glucose meter. This will help you determine the severity of the situation and guide your next steps. - Take Insulin or Medication as Prescribed
If you are diabetic and have been prescribed insulin or oral medication to manage your blood sugar, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for dosage. If you’re unsure about the appropriate dosage, consult with your doctor. - Drink Water
Drinking water can help flush excess glucose from the bloodstream and prevent dehydration caused by frequent urination. Avoid sugary drinks, which can worsen the situation. - Exercise
Physical activity helps lower blood sugar by increasing insulin sensitivity. A brisk walk or moderate exercise can help your body use glucose more effectively. However, avoid intense exercise if your blood sugar is very high, as this can lead to further complications. - Seek Medical Attention
If your blood sugar is extremely high or if you are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention. This could indicate a serious condition such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which requires urgent care.
Recognizing the signs of blood sugar high is essential for managing your health and preventing complications. Whether you experience mild symptoms such as increased thirst or more severe symptoms like nausea and vomiting, taking immediate action is crucial to prevent long-term damage. Monitoring your blood sugar levels, making dietary adjustments, and following your healthcare provider’s recommendations can help you maintain optimal blood sugar control. If you notice persistent high blood sugar symptoms, it’s important to seek professional advice to manage the condition and avoid further complications.
