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 notice if your blood sugar levels are slightly high. When they get very high, you may have more thirst, need to pass urine more often, and have weight loss. ‚
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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
- Lack of working out
- Being overweight
- Illness like stroke or heart attack
- Infection
- Use of drugs that cause high blood sugar like steroids
- Surgery or injury
- Pregnancy
- 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
- Dry mouth and skin
- Get infections often
- Losing weight without trying
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor may order lab tests. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor will decide the best way to treat your high blood sugar. You may have a short term problem with high blood sugar. Your doctor will work to fix what has caused it and will watch your blood sugar from time to time. ‚
Sometimes your blood sugar does not return to normal levels. You may be told you have diabetes. Then you will work to keep your blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible. This can be done with healthy lifestyle habits, drugs in some cases, and maybe insulin. ‚
You will be asked to check and write down your blood sugar levels at home. This is so your doctor can see how you are doing. Your drugs may be changed as needed to keep you from going too high or too low. Your doctor will also want to know about any other drugs you are taking. ‚
What problems could happen?
- High levels of acids called ketones build up in the blood. This is a very serious problem.
- Infection
- Injury to blood vessels and nerves
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Talk with your doctor about a diet and workout plan that is right for you.
- Control your weight.
- Limit beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol).
- Check your blood sugar levels often.
- Know the signs of high blood sugar and get help when needed.
Where can I learn more?
American Diabetes Association ‚
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/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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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚