High blood sugar, medically termed hyperglycemia, occurs when an excessive amount of glucose circulates in the bloodstream. Glucose serves as the primary energy source for the body’s cells. However, when the body produces insufficient insulin or cannot effectively use it, glucose accumulates in the blood instead of entering cells. This condition is a common concern for individuals with diabetes, and understanding how to manage it is important for overall health.
Recognizing High Blood Sugar
Identifying high blood sugar begins with recognizing physical signs of elevated glucose levels. Common symptoms include increased thirst and frequent urination, as the kidneys attempt to flush out excess sugar. Individuals might also experience increased fatigue, blurred vision, or headaches.
While symptoms suggest hyperglycemia, confirming it requires checking blood glucose levels with a meter. A reading above 180 mg/dL (10 mmol/L) two hours after eating, or fasting levels above 125 mg/dL (7 mmol/L), indicate hyperglycemia. Individual blood sugar targets vary, so consulting a healthcare provider about personalized goals is advisable.
Immediate Actions to Take
When blood sugar levels are elevated, several immediate steps can help manage the situation. Staying well-hydrated is a primary action; drinking plenty of water or sugar-free fluids can help dilute glucose and support the kidneys in flushing out excess sugar. Maintaining fluid balance is beneficial, as dehydration can lead to a higher concentration of blood sugar.
Reviewing medication adherence is important. Determine if you have missed a dose of your prescribed diabetes medication. If a correction dose is part of your treatment plan, follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions. Avoid taking extra medication without prior medical advice, as this could lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels.
Engaging in light physical activity, such as a short walk, can sometimes help lower blood sugar. Muscle activity uses glucose for energy, which can improve insulin sensitivity. However, this approach is appropriate only if there are no signs of ketosis, such as nausea, vomiting, or fruity-smelling breath. Intense exercise when ketones are present can worsen the condition.
After taking initial steps, retest blood sugar levels after one to two hours to assess if interventions are effective. If blood sugar levels remain high despite these actions, or if there is uncertainty, contact a doctor or diabetes educator for guidance.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Certain symptoms indicate a medical emergency requiring immediate professional attention. These warning signs often point to severe complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS). DKA occurs when the body, lacking sufficient insulin, breaks down fat for energy, producing acidic ketones. HHS involves extremely high blood sugar, severe dehydration, and altered consciousness.
Symptoms that warrant emergency care include persistent nausea and vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or rapid, deep breathing (Kussmaul respiration). A fruity odor on the breath can signal DKA. Confusion, profound weakness, severe dehydration, or loss of consciousness are also indicators. If blood sugar levels are very high, checking for ketones is important. Emergency care is necessary if ketone levels are moderate to large, or if any severe symptoms are present.
Strategies for Prevention
Proactive measures are important for preventing future episodes of high blood sugar. Consistently adhering to your prescribed treatment plan, including taking all medications and insulin as directed, helps maintain stable blood glucose levels. Regular communication with a healthcare provider allows for necessary adjustments to medication or dosage.
Adopting a balanced diet is fundamental, involving a consistent meal plan, careful portion control, and limiting foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates. Incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines helps manage blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity and utilizing glucose more effectively.
Managing stress plays a role in blood sugar control, as stress hormones can cause glucose levels to rise. Techniques such as meditation or deep breathing can help mitigate these effects. Consistent monitoring of blood sugar levels helps individuals understand their body’s patterns and make timely adjustments to diet or activity. Regular medical check-ups with a healthcare team support long-term blood sugar management.