What Is Hyperglycemia?

By: Moses Wright

Published: September 1, 2009

Hyperglycemia refers to the presence of high concentrations of glucose in the blood. People with diabetes or pre-diabetes are susceptible to hyperglycemia. Pre-diabetes is a susceptibility to hyperglycemia and an increased risk of developing diabetes.

Hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia are similar terms that should not be confused. Hypoglycemia is the opposite of hyperglycemia and described the condition of having low blood sugar. Both conditions are dangerous if left untreated.

The early symptoms of hyperglycemia are the same as the early symptoms of diabetes. These signs of hyperglycemia and diabetes are increased hunger, frequent urination, and increased thirst.

Fatigue, weight loss, impotence, dry skin, dry mouth, and recurrent infections such as yeast infections are symptoms of hyperglycemia. A person with hyperglycemia may also notice that wounds like cuts do not heal as well as they used to.

Hyperglycemia is worse for diabetic patients during illness or stress. During times of illness, diabetic patients may have difficulty controlling their blood sugar levels. Many diabetic patients could benefit from stress management as part of their diabetes management plans.

Hyperglycemia may be triggered by illness or stress. During times of illness, diabetic patients may struggle to control their blood glucose levels. Stress management is often included in diabetes management plans.

People with diabetes test their blood sugar levels to check for hyperglycemia. If the blood glucose levels are high, diabetic patients often have medication such as insulin to take to reduce their blood glucose levels.

The levels of glucose in the blood can be reduced by exercising. Exercise encourages the utilization of gluclose from the blood by the muscles. Before exercising to reduce blood glucose levels, diabetic patients should test for the presence of ketones since ketones can cause blood glucose levels to rise from exercise.

Ketoacidosis is a dangerous medical condition that can be caused by hyperglycemia. Without the appropriate amount of insulin, the body cannot utilize glucose in the blood for energy. Therefore, the body begins to break down fats for energy which causes ketones to be produced.

Skipping meals and hypoglycemia can also make the person susceptible to developing ketoacidosis. Without enough glucose from food eaten, the body is forced to break down fat for energy which causes ketones.

The symptoms of ketoacidosis are nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, dry mouth, fruity smelling breath, and shortness of breath. Ketoacidosis is a very serious condition that can lead to a diabetic coma or death. If someone suspects that they are developing ketoacidosis, they should seek emergency medical treatment.

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