Overview
When you bite into an apple or a piece of pasta, you give your body the energy and nutrients required to remain healthy. One of these vital ingredients is glucose, a kind of sugar. It is a significant energy source, circulating through the bloodstream to the cells in the body.
The body controls glucose levels, ensuring they do not become excessively high or low. However, sometimes, like in those with diabetes, the body fails to maintain these levels effectively, and the blood glucose level becomes excessively high.
People with hyperglycemia may be affected at any age. They may cause many symptoms, such as excessive thirst or hunger, fatigue, or the desire to urinate in more significant amounts than usual. If it is not treated for a prolonged period, it could result in severe complications, including kidney damage, eye damage, and heart diseases, as well as others. Treatments available can keep blood sugar levels in check and prevent hyperglycemia. Glucose levels.
How can you tell if hyperglycemia is a problem?
Hyperglycemia is a disorder that occurs when the amount of glucose in the blood is more significant than usual. Sometimes, it is referred to as “high blood sugar.” It typically affects those who suffer from diabetes mellitus; however, it may also occur in non-diabetics.
Glucose is the primary energy source for all cells within our bodies. It is found in the foods we eat, mainly carbohydrates. When food enters the stomach and is digested, it breaks into different components, one of which is glucose. The intestines absorb glucose, which the bloodstream absorbs and circulates through the body.
In normal circumstances, the body makes the hormone insulin to transfer glucose from the blood into the cells, reducing the amount of glucose in the blood and supplying cells with fuel.
Hyperglycemia is a sign that the body doesn't make enough insulin or fails to react to insulin adequately. In both instances, glucose remains in the blood rather than being sent to cells, resulting in higher blood glucose levels if more glucose enters the bloodstream. For example, when you eat carbohydrate-rich foods, the blood glucose levels rise.
In some instances, those with diabetes who suffer from hyperglycemia may suffer from a condition known as diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA). In this situation, cells are unable to access glucose. In the meantime, your body can get energy from breaking down fats. The process creates compounds known as ketones. They build up in blood vessels, causing it to turn acidic. DKA is a potentially fatal condition. (DKA is usually related to Type 1 diabetes; however, it can also occur in those who have type 2 diabetes as well.)
For those suffering from Type 2 Diabetes, extremely high blood glucose levels could result in a potentially fatal condition known as hyperosmolar hypoglycemic state (HHS) that can cause severe dehydration and changes in mental state.
What is the cause of hyperglycemia?
The most common cases of hyperglycemia are those with diabetes. For type I diabetes, the body doesn't produce enough insulin. The body produces sufficient insulin, but the cells don't respond appropriately. This is known as insulin resistance.
For those with diabetes, hyperglycemia is initiated through:
- Consuming too many carbohydrates
- Not enough exercise
- Not taking enough insulin (for Type 1 Diabetes) or other medicines that control blood glucose levels.
Hyperglycemia may occur due to:
- Medicines such as corticosteroids, beta-blockers, diuretics containing thiazide, and antipsychotics
- Specific ailments can affect the pancreas, which creates insulin.
- Medical conditions can lead to insulin resistance, for example, Cushing's syndrome, Acromegaly, and Acromegaly.
- Pregnancy
- Stress
What are the risk factors that could lead to hyperglycemia?
Certain conditions or factors can increase the risk of hyperglycemia, such as:
- Overweight or obesity
- Family history of type 2 diabetes
- Personal background of gestational diabetes
- Diabetic (when your blood glucose level is elevated but not enough to warrant a diagnosis of diabetes)
What are the signs of hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia symptoms include:
- Urinating in large quantities
- An excessive thirst
- Tired and exhausted
- Frequent hunger
- Dry mouth
- Weight loss
- Vision blurred
- Chronic infections (e.g., urinary tract infections and skin infections)
- Wounds (cuts, scrapes, cuts) that are healing slowly
In addition to the signs of hyperglycemia, those with DKA might also suffer from:
- Rapid, deep breathing
- Fruity-smelling breath
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Mental status changes
- Consciousness loss or in a coma
HHS can trigger these symptoms:
- Dehydration
- Mental state changes
- Consciousness loss or in a coma
How can hyperglycemia be diagnosed?
Diagnosing hyperglycemia typically requires a thorough medical background examination, physical examination, and blood tests.
The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and if you have any family background of diabetes or other risk factors related to hyperglycemia. The doctor will also perform a physical examination.
In the end, however, blood tests to measure blood glucose levels are essential to determine the severity of hyperglycemia. To take a “fasting glucose” (FBG) test, it is recommended that you avoid eating for eight hours before testing. Other blood tests could include the hemoglobin A1C test (the glycated Hemoglobin test) and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).
What are the treatments for hyperglycemia?
The treatment relies on the reason for hyperglycemia. It could involve the following:
Insulin. For people with type 1 diabetes, insulin is the most common cure for high blood sugar. In some instances, it can be utilized to treat patients who have type 2 diabetes.
Drugs that lower glucose levels. Various medications, such as metformin, lower blood sugar levels.
Monitoring of glucose. People with diabetes must monitor their blood glucose levels according to the guidelines prescribed by their physician.
Lifestyle alters. People with diabetes can lower the risk of developing hyperglycemia or manage already present hyperglycemia by engaging in regular exercise, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and maintaining an appropriate weight.
DKA and HHS are medical emergencies. They are treated with intravenous fluids, electrolytes, and insulin.
What are the chances for people with hyperglycemia?
In general, intermittent hyperglycemia does not result in long-term issues. However, if the condition persists, it may result in serious complications, such as kidney damage, eye issues, nerve damage, as well as cardiovascular disease.
With proper treatment and regular checks of blood sugar levels, people can lessen their risk of developing hyperglycemia, reduce their chance of severe complications, and lead healthy lives.
What is it that makes Yale Medicine unique in its treatment of hyperglycemia?
“The Yale Diabetes Center provides individualized care for people suffering from hyperglycemia that is either temporary (such as the result of a medication) prediabetes, Type 1 and type 2 diabetes,” claims Beatrice Lupsa, MD, who is a Yale Medicine endocrinologist with a specialization in both type 1 and 2 type diabetes. “Our team includes endocrinologists as well as mid-level practitioners and dietitians. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients with blood glucose issues have the self-management abilities and know-how to maintain the best blood sugar control. We emphasize lifestyle interventions that include healthy eating and regular exercise. Patients can access the most modern medical treatment and up-to-date medications and techniques to avoid hyperglycemic issues and maintain good overall health.”