Do You Know The Symptoms Of High Blood Sugar Levels?

Updated on May 3, 2023
Blocks spelling out the word, sugar

High blood sugar is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications such as organ and nerve damage. Understanding the symptoms of high blood sugar and how to manage it is crucial for maintaining good health.

What is High Blood Sugar?

Understanding Blood Sugar Levels

Blood sugar, or blood glucose, is the primary energy source for the body’s cells. The body produces insulin, a hormone that helps to regulate blood sugar levels. When the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or the cells don’t respond to insulin properly, it can lead to high blood sugar levels.

Sugar and Glucose in the Body

After you eat food that contains carbohydrates, such as bread or fruit, the body breaks down the carbohydrates into sugar, which enters the bloodstream. The pancreas responds by releasing insulin, which helps the body’s cells to absorb the sugar and use it for energy.

How Insulin Works in the Body

Insulin is responsible for moving glucose into the body’s cells, which can be used for energy. When insulin isn’t working correctly, glucose can’t enter the cells and builds up in the blood, causing high blood sugar levels.

What Causes High Blood Sugar?

Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels properly. Both types of diabetes can lead to high blood sugar levels if left untreated.

Other Medical Conditions That Affect Blood Sugar

Other medical conditions, such as pancreatic cancer, Cushing’s syndrome, and hyperthyroidism, can affect blood sugar levels and lead to high blood sugar.

Medications That Affect Blood Sugar

Some medications, such as steroids and diuretics, can also increase blood sugar levels. It is important to talk to your doctor about how medications may affect your blood sugar and how to manage it.

How to Monitor Your Blood Sugar

Checking Your Blood Sugar Levels at Home

One of the best ways to check your blood sugar levels is to regularly monitor them at home. This can be done using a glucose meter or continuous glucose monitor. The American Diabetes Association recommends checking blood glucose levels before meals and 1-2 hours after meals.

How Often to Check Your Blood Sugar

How often you should check your blood sugar depends on your doctor’s recommendations and your individual needs. People with type 1 diabetes may need to check their blood sugar multiple times a day, while those with type 2 diabetes may only need to check it a few times a week.

What to Do if Your Blood Sugar is High

If your blood sugar is high, taking steps to lower it is important. This may include adjusting your diet, increasing physical activity, or taking medication as your doctor prescribes. It is important to talk to your doctor about managing high blood sugar levels.

What are the Symptoms of High Blood Sugar?

Early Symptoms of High Blood Sugar

Some early symptoms of high blood sugar include frequent urination, increased thirst, and blurred vision. These symptoms may be mild and easily overlooked, so it is important to regularly monitor your blood sugar levels if you are at risk for high blood sugar.

Symptoms of Severe or Prolonged High Blood Sugar

If high blood sugar levels persist for an extended period, it can lead to more severe symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, dry mouth, and drowsiness. In extreme cases, it can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

How to Prevent High Blood Sugar Symptoms

The best way to prevent high blood sugar symptoms is to keep your blood sugar levels in the target range through regular monitoring and management. This may involve making dietary changes, increasing physical activity, and taking medication as your doctor prescribes.

How to Lower Your Blood Sugar Levels

Lifestyle Changes to Help Lower Blood Sugar

Healthy lifestyle changes can help to lower blood sugar levels over time. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and reducing stress. These changes can help to prevent high blood sugar levels from developing in the first place.

Medications to Lower Blood Sugar

Medications may be necessary if lifestyle changes aren’t enough to manage high blood sugar. Medications such as metformin or insulin can help to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent complications of high blood sugar.

When to See a Doctor About High Blood Sugar

If you are experiencing symptoms of high blood sugar or have been diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to see a doctor for proper management of the condition. Regular check-ups and monitoring can help to prevent complications and maintain good health.

Understanding the symptoms and causes of high blood sugar is crucial for properly managing and preventing complications. Regularly monitoring blood sugar levels and making healthy lifestyle changes can lead a healthy and active life with diabetes and manage high blood sugar levels.

Meet Abby, a passionate health product reviewer with years of experience in the field. Abby's love for health and wellness started at a young age, and she has made it her life mission to find the best products to help people achieve optimal health. She has a Bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and has worked in various health institutions as a Nutritionist. Her expertise in the field has made her a trusted voice in the health community. She regularly writes product reviews and provides nutrition tips, and advice that helps her followers make informed decisions about their health. In her free time, Jane enjoys exploring new hiking trails and trying new recipes in her kitchen to support her healthy lifestyle.