High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, occurs when your body's insulin is insufficient or doesn't properly process the glucose in the blood stream. Although hyperglycemia and it's counterpart, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), are commonly linked to diabetes, it's possible for non-diabetics to experience high or low blood sugar levels as well.
Signs/Symptoms
When your blood sugar is high, you may experience headaches, blurred vision and difficulty concentrating. You may also feel very thirsty and urinate frequently.
Identification
A blood test (either from your doctor or using a home blood-sugar tester) can identify high blood sugar. After a meal (referred to as post-prandial), a blood sugar level higher than 180 mg/dl is considered high. Your doctor may also want to do a fasting blood sugar test; a blood sugar level of 90 to 130 or greater after fasting is considered high.
Effects
Prolonged high blood sugar can lead to complications such as slow healing of cuts and sores, skin problems, vaginal infections, vision problems, nerve damage and stomach complications.
Warning
For people with diabetes, untreated hyperglycemia can lead to a build up of ketones (waste products created when your body processes fats). That can lead to a life-threatening condition called ketoacidosis. Signs of ketoacidosis include fruity-smelling breath, nausea and dry mouth.
Prevention/Solution
If you have a pattern of hyperglycemia, it's important to test your blood sugar regularly. Also, practice prevention by adopting healthy eating habits, exercising regularly, drink plenty of water, and work with your doctor to determine your medication needs.
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