Hyperglycemia, also known as high blood sugar, can cause serious complications if left untreated. But with the right treatment and awareness, you can help prevent the onset of this dangerous condition and reduce your chances of developing it in the first place. The following article highlights eight crucial facts about hyperglycemia that every person should know about.
What is Hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels are too high, fail to use glucose, and instead build up in the bloodstream.
Normal Blood Sugar Level
The normal blood sugar level is typically measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). A normal blood sugar level falls between 80 and 130 mg/dL.
The Most Common Types of Diabetes Mellitus
In Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, the insulin-producing pancreatic cells are destroyed by the immune system. The body cannot use insulin correctly or doesn’t produce enough insulin in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Hyperglycemia vs. Hypoglycemia: What’s the Difference?
In order to deal with diabetes, it is important for you to learn about hyperglycemia vs. hypoglycemia. Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is the opposite. Symptoms of hyperglycemia may include:
- Excessive thirst
- Urination
- Blurry vision
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fainting
More severe complications include diabetic coma and ketoacidosis. These can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Four Stages of Hyperglycemia
Elevated blood sugar levels are classified as Stage 1 when your glucose levels are between 140 and 199 mg/dL (7.8 to 11 mmol/L).
Stage 2 is when your glucose levels are between 200 and 249 mg/dL (11 to 13 mmol/L).
If you have elevated blood sugar levels in the range of 250- 299 mg/dL (13 to 16 mmol/L), you’re in Stage 3.
In Stage 4, hyperglycemia becomes life-threatening when your blood sugar level exceeds 300 mg/dL (16 mmol/L) or higher. Doctors often describe this as a diabetic coma or ketoacidosis, which can be fatal if not treated quickly.
Diabetic Kidney Disease
The chronic nature of diabetes, high blood pressure, and diabetes medications put people with type 2 diabetes at risk for kidney disease. Also, high protein levels in the urine are an early sign of kidney disease.
More than two-thirds of people with diabetes develop kidney disease. So you will likely need to pay attention to your kidneys, especially when diabetes is first diagnosed or if you’re starting a new medication.
Complications of Blood Sugar Disorders
Mild hyperglycemia may not have any signs or symptoms, but it can cause nerve damage to the feet. Untreated high blood sugar can also lead to heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness.
Lifestyle Changes to Improve Blood Sugar Levels
Lifestyle changes such as getting plenty of exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep can help improve blood sugar levels. In addition, eating more fruits and vegetables can help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Managing stress by practicing meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques is another way to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In case you are at high risk for developing diabetes or have prediabetes, taking Tandem Diabetes metformin may also help lower your risk.
Always check your blood sugar level and ensure it’s within the normal range. Exercise regularly, maintain a healthy diet, and avoid obesity to lower your risk of developing hyperglycemia.
