What is hyperglycemia?

Have you ever felt like your entire body was on fire, and not in a good way? Your mouth feels dry, your vision gets blurry, and you start sweating bullets? Or maybe that’s just me after I eat an entire bag of candy corn. But it could also be a sign that your blood sugar levels are through the roof! This condition is called hyperglycemia and it affects millions of people all around the world.

So What Exactly is Hyperglycemia?

Before we dive into what hyperglycemia actually means for our bodies, we need to know what exactly causes it. Basically, hyperglycemia occurs when there is too much glucose (a type of sugar) floating around in your bloodstream. Glucose provides energy to our cells so they can perform their various functions. However, when there is too much glucose present,it becomes toxic instead of helpful.

Types Of Hyperglycemia

There are two main types of hyperglycemia: fasting and postprandial (after-eating). In the case of fasting hyperglycemia (also known as impaired fasting glucose), blood sugar levels are high after an overnight fast or 8 hours without any food or drink other than water. Levels typically range from 100-125mg/dL but if consistently at this level can lead to full-blown diabetes.

Postprandial or after eating blood-sugar levels above normal range which typically exceed over140 mg/dL within 2 hrs following meal also considered as one aspect being diagnosed for diabetes patients.

Causes

We all enjoy indulging once in a while (or every day) with those sweet treats but consuming meals containing refined foods such sugary drinks or junk foods more prone to this disease than regular meal consumers.Compromised physical activity makes it challenging for the human metabolism system to maintain the homeostasis or control a healthy balance of sugar inside your blood.

Symptoms

Now that we know what hyperglycemia is, let’s talk about its symptoms! Here are some common signs that you may be experiencing high blood sugar levels:

• Increased thirst
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue and lethargy

And if things get really serious,

you might also experience:

• Fruity-smelling breath (Just like you got out from dentist)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion

If any of these occur in bouts, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional because left unattended, it can lead to long-term damage.

Complications

Some complications resulting from untreated Hyperglycemia include not limited to:

1. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
2. Skin related problems such as infections and itching in private areas.
3. Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
4. Renal Issues leading to dialysis\transplant procedures

Treatment And Prevention

There is no getting around this truth–proper management of one’s diet , physical activity with added care & monitoring when medically suggested will treat and stop cases extending into diabetic realm but there is usually no cure for diabetes itself.Working on these aspects can prevent further complications arising due to it.

Here are some other tips for treating hyperglycemia:

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps flush glucose out through the kidneys.

Get moving: Exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels by using up excess glucose stored in your body.

Medical intervention: Check-ins with doctors help immensely having better treatment options which work uniquely based on types of diabetes patient has.

While receiving medical interventions provides relief during the course ,one should strictly adhere prescription instructions,closely monitor their disease progression thereby harness any new symptom could cause delay in treatment hence ought to be addressed the earliest by a medical professional.

Final Thoughts

Living with hyperglycemia isn’t always easy. However, with proper self-care management and working under supervision one could lead a healthy life despite all odds.Eating balanced diets consistently,maintaining an active lifestyle within your own means are mandatory for controlling this disease.If you suspect that you may have hyperglycemia or if any of these signs seem to be hindering your daily activities,it’s best not leave it ignored-consulting licensed professionals must never be kept aside . Remember, taking care of our body is paramount and will only add to a better quality of living for days ahead!