Hyperglycemia is the technical term for a high blood sugar level. Normal blood glucose levels stay within 70 to 150 mg/dl throughout the day. Under healthy conditions, the level may rise a bit after a meal and be on the low side before you consume your first one.
By far, the most common cause of hyperglycemia is diabetes. This symptom arises because not enough insulin is produced (Type 1) or your body cannot use it to turn glucose into energy (Type 2).
High blood sugar levels may also be caused by other health conditions, such as:
- stroke
- pregnancy
- pneumonia
- pancreatitis
- heart attack
- inflammation
- severe stress
- niacin overdose
- hyperthyroidism
- pancreatic cancer
- pheochromocytoma
- Cushing’s syndrome
- infections ~ cervicitis, UTI
- acute respiratory infections
- pelvic inflammatory disease
- respiratory diseases ~ COPD, cystic fibrosis
Many of these conditions only cause a temporary increase your blood sugar.
Hyperglycemia can also be caused by certain drugs, such as:
- lithium
- diuretics
- phenytoin
- estrogens
- salicylates
- phenotiazine
- beta blockers
- corticosteroids
- antidepressants
The symptoms of hyperglycemia are:
- pruritus
- dry skin
- polydipsia
- dry mouth
- headaches
- weight loss
- blurred vision
- appetite increase
- fatigue, weakness
- difficulty concentrating
- polyuria, frequent urination
Diabetic caused hyperglycemia symptoms are typically caused by:
- not enough exercise
- eating too many calories
- over consuming carbohydrates
- missing glucose lowering medication ~ insulin, metformin
Frequent or chronic high levels of sugar in your blood can cause damage to your nerves, blood vessels and other organs. And it can lead to ketoacidosis. So, it’s important to treat recurrent hyperglycemia expeditiously.
