To avoid long-term health complications, it is essential to effectively manage type 2 diabetes.
Complications that may arise include damage to blood vessels, foot ulcers, vision problems, kidney issues, and gum disease.
To reduce the risk of complications, it is important to control blood glucose levels, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and refrain from smoking.
Important
Regularly attending diabetes appointments and tests can aid in early detection and treatment of complications.
Non-urgent advice: See a GP or diabetes nurse if:
- Look out for foot blisters, cracked skin, pain, tingling, numbness, or vision issues.
Complications of high blood glucose
In type 2 diabetes, high blood glucose levels can lead to hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS) or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
HHS results from dehydration and infections, while DKA stems from a lack of insulin causing ketones to accumulate.
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- Watch for frequent urination, thirst, nausea, confusion, and shortness of breath. Seek medical help if you experience these symptoms.
More in Type 2 diabetes
Reviewed Date: 10 February 2025
Next Review: 10 February 2028
If blood glucose levels are high, known as hyperglycemia, it may be due to insufficient insulin or ineffective use in the body.
Hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications if not properly managed, including nerve damage, kidney problems, and cardiovascular disease.
Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly and following a healthy diet and exercise plan are key components of managing hyperglycemia in individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
What causes hyperglycemia?
Possible causes of hyperglycemia include lack of insulin, insulin ineffectiveness, stress, or the dawn phenomenon.
Other common causes of hyperglycemia can include certain medications, illness or infection, eating too much or exercising too little, and hormonal imbalances. It is important for individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and work with healthcare professionals to develop a management plan to prevent and control hyperglycemia.
What are the symptoms of hyperglycemia?
Symptoms of hyperglycemia include high blood glucose, glucose in urine, frequent urination, and excessive thirst.
Regularly monitoring blood sugar levels can aid in early detection and management of hyperglycemia.
How do I treat hyperglycemia?
Engage in physical activity to lower blood glucose levels, but avoid exercise if levels are high and ketones are present.
Consult healthcare professionals for guidance on managing blood sugar levels effectively.
Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, especially if you have diabetes, to track your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to help regulate blood sugar levels.
Avoid sugary drinks and foods high in refined carbohydrates, as they can cause spikes in blood glucose levels.
Take prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider to help control hyperglycemia and prevent complications.
What if high glucose levels go untreated?
Promptly treat hyperglycemia to prevent ketoacidosis, a serious condition resulting from lack of insulin.
Symptoms of ketoacidosis include shortness of breath, fruity breath, nausea, and dry mouth.
Medical IDs
When managing diabetes with insulin, wear a medical ID for emergency identification.
Medical IDs provide crucial health information and aid emergency responders in providing appropriate care.
It is important to monitor blood sugar levels regularly, as hyperglycemia can be managed through diet, exercise, and medication.
Some ways to prevent hyperglycemia include following a balanced diet, limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates, staying active, and taking prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare provider.
It is also crucial to stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and manage stress levels to help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
If you experience symptoms of hyperglycemia, such as frequent urination, blurred vision, or slow healing wounds, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further complications.
What is hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia, characterized by high blood glucose levels, can affect individuals with or without diabetes, often due to insulin deficiency or resistance.
Glucose provides cellular energy, and when not utilized effectively, levels rise, causing hyperglycemia.
Additional Information on Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, can also be caused by certain medical conditions such as pancreatitis, liver disease, and hormonal imbalances. In addition, infections, particularly urinary tract infections and pneumonia, can also lead to elevated blood sugar levels.
It is important for individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and follow a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adherence to prescribed medications. Additionally, managing stress levels and seeking medical advice for any underlying health issues are crucial in preventing hyperglycemia.
What are the risk factors for hyperglycemia?
Risk factors for hyperglycemia include obesity, family history of type 2 diabetes, and a personal history of gestational diabetes.
What are the symptoms of hyperglycemia?
Symptoms of hyperglycemia may include urinating frequently, feeling excessively thirsty, tiredness, persistent hunger, dry mouth, weight loss, blurred vision, recurrent infections, and slow-healing wounds.
Individuals with DKA may experience deep, rapid breathing, fruity-smelling breath, headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, changes in mental status, loss of consciousness, or coma.
HHS symptoms can include dehydration, changes in mental status, loss of consciousness, or coma.
In addition to the tests mentioned, doctors may also perform additional blood tests such as checking for ketones in the blood or urine to determine if a person has diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of hyperglycemia.
It is important for individuals with hyperglycemia to work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and develop a comprehensive treatment plan to manage their condition effectively.
In addition to the mentioned treatments, it is important for individuals with hyperglycemia to work closely with their healthcare team to create a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include regular medical check-ups, education on managing blood glucose levels, and medication adjustments as needed. It is also crucial for individuals to stay hydrated, avoid skipping meals, and be aware of the symptoms of high blood sugar.
Furthermore, managing stress levels and getting enough sleep can also help control blood sugar levels. It is important for individuals with hyperglycemia to be proactive in their treatment and make lifestyle choices that support overall health and well-being. With the right combination of medication, monitoring, and lifestyle changes, hyperglycemia can be effectively managed.
What is the outlook for people who have hyperglycemia?
Temporary hyperglycemia typically does not lead to long-term issues. However, persistent hyperglycemia can result in complications like eye problems, kidney damage, nerve damage, and heart disease.
With proper treatment and monitoring of blood glucose levels, individuals can decrease the risk of hyperglycemia, prevent complications, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
What makes Yale Medicine unique in its treatment of hyperglycemia?
The Yale Diabetes Center provides personalized care for hyperglycemia, whether transient, prediabetes, or type 1/2 diabetes. The center focuses on lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, for optimal blood glucose control and overall health.
Blood glucose, the primary sugar in the bloodstream and a crucial energy source, originates from food digestion. The pancreas releases insulin to help glucose enter cells for energy production.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes leads to elevated blood glucose levels due to inadequate insulin production or utilization. Long-term high glucose levels can result in severe health complications, emphasizing the importance of maintaining target glucose levels.
What are blood glucose targets?
To effectively manage diabetes, aim for target blood glucose levels, typically:
- Before meals: 80-130 mg/dL
- Two hours after meals: Under 180 mg/dL
Target levels may vary based on age, other health conditions, and individual factors.
When and how should I check my blood glucose?
Regular monitoring of blood glucose is crucial for diabetes management, often done using a blood glucose meter or continuous glucose monitoring.
An A1C blood test every three months helps monitor average blood glucose levels and assists in setting and achieving treatment goals.
What happens if my blood glucose level becomes too high?
Symptoms of high blood glucose (hyperglycemia) include thirst, fatigue, frequent urination, and blurred vision. Consult your healthcare team if you experience these symptoms or consistently high blood glucose levels.
High blood glucose may also be linked to conditions affecting insulin or blood glucose levels.
What happens if my blood glucose level becomes low for me?
Signs of low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) may include shaking, sweating, anxiety, hunger, or confusion. Timely treatment of low blood glucose helps prevent complications.
Low blood glucose can also occur in non-diabetic individuals due to various medical conditions and medications. Consult your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.