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Hyperglycemia, Child


About this topic


Hyperglycemia is also known as high blood sugar. It happens when the blood sugar is not controlled and gets too high. It may turn into a health problem known as diabetes. You may not know when your child has a high blood sugar level. A high level can cause your child to be extra thirsty, need to pass urine more often, and lose weight. ‚  


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What are the causes?


The cause of high blood sugar is not known, but stress may make it worse. Often, high blood sugar is caused by: ‚  
  • Poor diet
  • Missing doses of drugs to treat high blood sugar
  • Child not being active or lack of outdoor play
  • Being overweight
  • Illness or infection
  • Use of drugs that cause high blood sugar, like steroids
  • Surgery or injury
  • Family history of high blood sugar

What are the main signs?


  • Feeling very thirsty or hungry more often
  • Need to pass urine more often
  • Feeling tired
  • Blurred eyesight
  • Dizzy or passing out
  • Upset belly and throwing up

Young children may not understand the signs of high blood sugar. Talk with your doctor about how to help your child be aware when they are feeling poorly and to tell others right away. ‚  

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


  • Your childs doctor will take your child's history. Talk to the doctor about:
    • All the drugs you are giving your child. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor if your child has any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs your child takes with you.
  • The doctor will do an exam on your child and may order lab tests.

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


The doctor will decide the best way to treat your childs high blood sugar. Your child may have a short term problem with high blood sugar. The doctor will work to fix what has caused it and will watch your child's blood sugar from time to time. ‚  
Sometimes your child's blood sugar does not return to normal levels. You may be told your child has diabetes. Then you will work to keep your child's blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible. Sometimes, this is done with lifestyle changes. Other times, your child may need to take drugs or insulin. ‚  
Your child may need to check and write down blood sugar levels a few times a day so there is a record of their blood sugar levels. This will help the doctor care for your child. The drugs may need to be changed if your child's sugar levels are getting too high or too low. ‚  

What problems could happen?


  • High levels of acids called ketones can build up in your childs blood. This is a very serious problem. Your doctor may teach you to test your child's urine for ketones.
  • Infection
  • Injury to blood vessels and nerves

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


  • Help your child keep a healthy weight.
  • Encourage your child to exercise.
  • Know the signs of high blood sugar and get help when needed.
  • Teach your child the signs of high blood sugar and to get help right away if they do not feel well.

Where can I learn more?


American Diabetes Association ‚  
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/hyperglycemia.html ‚  
KidsHealth ‚  
http://kidshealth.org/parent/diabetes_center/diabetes_basics/hyperglycemia.html ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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