Hyperglycemia- What All Should You Know

Diabetes & Endocrinology | by Dr. Kalyan Kumar Gangopadhyay | Published on 21/07/2023

Table of Contents

Introduction

In this fast-paced era, maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become difficult causing countless health problems. One primary aspect to maintain good health and well-being is keeping our blood sugar levels in check and within normal range. Hyperglycemia is a condition that is determined by high blood glucose levels. It is evolving as a health concern which affects millions of people across the globe.

In this write-up, we will be covering everything that’s related to hyperglycemia. But, before we discuss that, if you suspect this condition, then book your appointment with BM Birla Heart Research Centre, the best cardiac hospital in Kolkata. It has integrated a team of highly skilled professionals having years of experience in their respective fields.

What is hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia occurs when the blood sugar levels are extremely high in the body. It is also referred to as high blood sugar or high blood glucose. It appears when there is less insulin in the body or the body can’t produce sufficient insulin.

If a person has hyperglycemia, then it implies that it is diabetes. It also means that an individual can experience episodes of hyperglycemia often. If you are diagnosed with hyperglycemia and left untreated for long, then you must know that it can lead to damaging the nerves, tissues, organs, and blood vessels.

If hyperglycemia is severe, then it can also lead to life-threatening complications such as diabetes-related ketoacidosis. Hence, it is important to understand the need for prompt medical help to treat this condition.

What are hyperglycemia symptoms?

Hyperglycemia symptoms might take days or even weeks to develop, the common symptoms include:

Increased thirst
Increased hunger
Frequent urge to pee
Blurry vision
Fatigue
Unhealed sores
Headache
Weight loss
Vaginal infections
Skin infections
slow -healing cuts

What are hyperglycemia causes?

Several factors lead to hyperglycemia. These factors are known to be the main hyperglycemia causes which include:

Inappropriate insulin dosage or other medications for lowering the levels of glucose
Involving more carbohydrates than usual
Extra active than usual
Infections or illness
Stress high levels
Physical trauma like an orthopedic injury

What are the risk factors of hyperglycemia?

Various risk factors are linked to hyperglycemia conditions. It involves:

Type 2 diabetes or a family history
Gestational diabetes history
Gaining too much weight or obesity ‘
Polycystic ovarian syndrome
High blood pressure
Hyperlipidemia

How is hyperglycemia diagnosed?

For hyperglycemia diagnosis, healthcare professionals usually order blood tests to screen for diabetes and diagnose hyperglycemia. Here are these tests:

A1c test
Glucose tolerance tests
Fasting glucose tests

Another method to detect hyperglycemia is using at-home blood sugar. It helps in monitoring blood sugar and checking for hyperglycemia. If you involve using continuous glucose monitoring, the device to notify you when the blood sugar levels are high. It is essential to detect blood sugar with a glucose meter if the CGM reading is unable to match how the patient is feeling. Additionally, one must not overlook the significance of consulting a healthcare professional.

What are the options for Hyperglycemia Treatment?

Several options for hyperglycemia treatment involve:

Monitoring glucose levels is an important part of the treatment plan. One must check blood sugar levels frequently like before eating, after eating, or at bedtime. It is recommended to record the number and share it with the doctor for a monitoring plan. If the patient is aware of his/her glucose levels, it becomes easier to manage them before it gets out of control.
Another treatment plan recommended by the doctor is exercising. It is among the best methods for keeping blood sugar levels low before they are high. People on medications must consult the doctor before exercising. Also, it is important to note that people with diabetes who are on insulin therapy must contact the doctor to understand what kind of exercises should be involved. People who have ketones must avoid involving exercise in their routine.
Analyzing eating habits is another option for a hyperglycemia treatment plan. It is important to get in touch with a dietician or a nutritionist who can offer help in planning meals to manage and avoid higher glucose levels. Usually, the recommended diet plan involves a keto diet, Ma Mediterranean diet, dietary approaches for stopping hypertension, and a vegan or vegetarian diet.
Evaluating treatment plans for hyperglycemia is another step that involves personal health history and hyperglycemia experiences. The doctor might make alterations in the amount type, medication timing, etc. It is recommended not to make any adjustments to medications without the consultation of a doctor.

Conclusion

Hyperglycemia is very common among people who have diabetes. This is why, it is recommended to monitor blood sugar levels regularly and consult a diabetes healthcare expert so that diabetes and hyperglycemia can be managed. It is vital to know that high blood sugar doesn’t have to be severe. There are steps you can take to prevent the disease. If you feel overwhelmed and not confident enough with the management of hyperglycemia, then book your appointment with BM Birla Heart Research Centre to obtain the right assistance.

FAQs

Can hyperglycemia be cured?

There is no cure for hyperglycemia but can be managed with proper lifestyle changes and recommended solutions given by the doctor.

Can hyperglycemia cause headaches?

Yes, headaches are considered to be the first sign of hyperglycemia

Can pneumonia cause hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia is found to be common in people with pneumonia

Can you have both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia?

Yes, one can have both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia.