What is Hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia is a condition that is characterized by an increase in the levels of glucose or sugar in the blood. This condition is looked upon as both a symptom as well as a cause of diabetes. Whether it is type 1 or type 2 diabetes, this condition is caused when there are complications with insulin. Insulin is the chemical which enables or helps the cells to derive energy from glucose. As mentioned earlier this condition is very closely linked to diabetes.

Causes and Symptoms of Hyperglycemia

Some of the causes of hyperglycemia in diabetics include the following; forgetting or skipping one’s insulin, skipping medications that help in lowering glucose levels, consuming to many carbohydrates, illness, infection, increased amount of stress, exercising lesser than usual or decreased activity, and indulging in any kind of strenuous physical activity. This condition requires medical attention, as, if ignored it can prove to be fatal. The symptoms associated with this condition can range from being mild to severe. Some of the common symptoms displayed by this condition are frequent need to urinate, increased thirst, a feeling of being constantly hungry even after a meal, headaches, tiredness and fatigue, blurred vision and a difficulty in concentrating. Secondary symptoms generally include lack of energy, loss of weight and dry skin on the mouth due to dehydration. Hyperglycemia, when left untreated, can lead to a condition known as ketoacidosis.

Eventually the body will require energy urgently. Once the person reaches this stage, the body will start shutting down low priority functions in order to store energy. This will result in dizziness, confused thinking and blurry vision. It will then utilize the fat as a source of energy instead of glucose. When this happens, waste chemicals known as ketones begin to build up in the blood. Once the amount of ketones in the blood reaches a critical level, they poison the person’s body and this eventually causes death or coma.

Treatment of Hyperglycemia

Treatment for this condition is basically aimed at maintaining and controlling the patient’s blood sugar levels. People that suffer from this condition are advised to drink a lot of water, as it helps in successfully flushing out most of the excess glucose from the body. Additionally, patients are also advised to change their lifestyle, eating habits and to exercise regularly, as this helps in lowering the glucose levels. Apart from this, insulin injections and oral medications may also form a part of the treatment.