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Hyperglycemia, commonly known as high blood sugar, is a condition that occurs when the glucose levels in your blood rise above normal. While occasional fluctuations in blood sugar are common, persistent hyperglycaemia can indicate diabetes or other underlying health concerns. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is crucial for managing your health effectively.
Synopsis
What is Hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycaemia occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels by helping glucose enter cells for energy. Without proper insulin function, glucose accumulates in the blood, leading to hyperglycemia.
Blood sugar levels are considered high when fasting blood glucose exceeds 126 mg/dL or post-meal levels exceed 180 mg/dL. Persistent hyperglycaemia can damage organs over time, making early recognition essential.
Common Hyperglycaemia Symptoms
Hyperglycaemia can develop gradually, so recognising early symptoms is vital. Some common signs include:
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Frequent Urination (Polyuria): Excess glucose in the blood leads the kidneys to filter more sugar, causing increased urination.
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Increased Thirst (Polydipsia): Frequent urination leads to dehydration, triggering intense thirst.
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Blurred Vision: High blood sugar can affect the lens of your eyes, making vision unclear.
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Fatigue: When glucose cannot enter the cells, your body lacks energy, leaving you feeling tired.
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Unexplained Weight Loss: Despite eating normally, the body may start breaking down fat and muscle for energy.
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Slow-healing Wounds or Infections: High blood sugar weakens the immune system and affects circulation.
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Dry Mouth and Skin: Dehydration from increased urination can lead to dryness.
In severe cases, hyperglycaemia may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion. If these occur, urgent medical attention is required.
Causes of Hyperglycaemia
Several factors can contribute to elevated blood sugar levels:
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Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body produces little to no insulin, while Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance.
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Poor Diet: Consuming high-sugar or high-carbohydrate foods without balancing insulin levels can spike blood sugar.
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Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger hormonal changes, temporarily raising glucose levels.
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Infections or Illness: The body releases stress hormones during illness, which can increase blood sugar.
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Medications: Certain drugs, such as corticosteroids or diuretics, may cause hyperglycemia as a side effect.
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Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity reduces insulin sensitivity, contributing to higher blood sugar levels.
How to Reduce Blood Sugar Level Immediately?
If your blood sugar is elevated, there are steps you can take to reduce it quickly:
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Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps flush out excess sugar through urine.
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Exercise Moderately: Activities like walking can help cells absorb glucose. Avoid vigorous exercise if blood sugar is extremely high, as it can sometimes worsen levels.
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Take Prescribed Medication: Insulin or oral hypoglycaemic drugs should be taken as directed by your doctor.
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Avoid Sugary Foods: Stick to low-glycaemic index foods to prevent further spikes.
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Monitor Your Levels: Frequent blood sugar checks help you understand patterns and prevent dangerous highs.
Hyperglycaemia Treatments
Long-term management of hyperglycemia depends on its cause and severity. Treatment strategies include:
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Lifestyle Changes: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management are foundational steps. Foods high in fibre, lean protein, and healthy fats can stabilise blood sugar levels.
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Medications: Depending on your condition, your doctor may prescribe insulin injections or oral medications like metformin to improve insulin sensitivity.
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Regular Monitoring: Keeping track of blood sugar levels helps in adjusting diet, activity, and medication to maintain normal levels.
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Stress Management: Techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can help prevent stress-induced hyperglycaemia.
For severe cases, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hospitalisation may be required for intravenous fluids, insulin therapy, and electrolyte correction.
When to See a Doctor?
Prompt medical attention is necessary if:
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Blood sugar remains above 300 mg/dL despite home management
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Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fruity breath, rapid breathing, or confusion occur
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You frequently experience high blood sugar readings without understanding the cause
The Department of Endocrinology at the Manipal Hospitals Kharadi, Pune, provides comprehensive care for hyperglycemia, including advanced diagnostic tests, personalised treatment plans, and continuous monitoring to prevent complications.
Preventing Hyperglycaemia
Preventive strategies are key to reducing the risk of hyperglycemia and its complications:
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Follow a Diabetes-friendly Diet: prioritise whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins, and limit refined sugars.
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Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
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Maintain a Healthy Weight: Even modest weight loss can improve insulin sensitivity.
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Manage Stress: Incorporate mindfulness, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques into your daily routine.
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Regular Check-ups: Early detection through routine blood tests can prevent long-term complications like neuropathy, kidney disease, and cardiovascular issues.
Explore More of Our Blog Posts: All About Type 2 Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Conclusion
Hyperglycaemia is manageable with awareness, proactive care, and expert guidance. If you notice symptoms of high blood sugar or have concerns about your risk, consulting our top Diabetes and Endocrinology Specialist at the Manipal Hospital Kharadi can help you maintain optimal health and prevent complications.
FAQ's
Fasting blood sugar above 126 mg/dL and post-meal levels over 180 mg/dL are considered high and require attention.
With proper lifestyle changes, medication, and monitoring, blood sugar can be controlled, reducing long-term risks.
Mild spikes can often be reduced within hours through hydration, light exercise, and medication. Severe cases require medical intervention.
Yes, chronic high blood sugar can damage nerves and kidneys and increase the risk of heart disease.
Regular monitoring helps detect trends, guide treatment decisions, and prevent dangerous spikes or drops.
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