Doctor's Notes on High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)
Hyperglycemia refers to high levels of glucose (blood sugar) in the blood. It is a characteristic sign of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as prediabetes. Diabetes is the most common cause of hyperglycemia. Less common causes can include tumors that secrete hormones, pancreatitis, Cushing's syndrome, and taking certain medications.
Mild hyperglycemia may not result in any symptoms or signs. When present, the most common associated signs and symptoms are increased thirst (known as polydipsia) and the need to urinate frequently. Other possible symptoms that can accompany hyperglycemia are
- headaches,
- increased hunger,
- blurred vision,
- tiredness, and
- problems with concentration.
When hyperglycemia is present over the long term, such as in poorly controlled diabetes, it can cause poor wound healing, nerve damage, vision problems, and damage to the blood vessels and kidneys.
What Is the Treatment for Hyperglycemia?
Dangerously high blood sugar levels are treated with intravenous fluid, electrolyte, and insulin administration.
Some people with type 2 diabetes may be able to control their blood sugar through a nutrition and exercise plan and weight loss if appropriate. Insulin is the treatment for type 1 diabetes. Many classes of medications are used to manage type 2 diabetes. These can be taken in both oral and injectable medication forms, and combinations of medications are often prescribed. Some people with type 2 diabetes will benefit from insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes: Test Your Medical IQ Quiz
Question______________ is another term for type 2 diabetes.
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Diabetic Eye Disease
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness in the US and worldwide. Diabetic eye disease is a complication from diabetes. Types of diabetic eye disease include blindness, background diabetic retinopathy, nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, proliferative diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy includes blurry or hazy vision, difficulty focusing, and night glare from oncoming lights. Causes of diabetic eye disease occur over time due to hypoglycemia (high blood sugar) and other abnormalities in metabolism found in people with diabetes. Treatment for diabetes eye problems depends on the type of eye problem. Medication and surgery for diabetes eye problems may be necessary in addition to lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercise, quitting smoking. -
Diabetic Foot Problems
Read about diabetic foot care. Causes of foot problems in people with diabetes include footwear, nerve damage, poor circulation, trauma, infections, and smoking. Symptoms and signs of foot problems in persons with diabetes include persistent pain, redness of the skin, leg or feet swelling, claudication, hard shiny skin on the legs, localized warmth around the wound, drainage or pus from the would, difficulty walking, fever, red streaking away from the wound, new or lasting numbness in the legs or feet. Any break in the skin can result in a serious infection. Treatment depends upon the location and severity of the wound or problem. Amputation of the leg or foot is sometimes necessary. -
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) occurs when a person with diabetes becomes dehydrated. Causes of diabetic ketoacidosis include infection, missed insulin, or newly diagnosed diabetes. Some signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis include excessive thirst, vomiting, confusion, dry skin or mouth, shortness of breath, and abdominal pain. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency and if you think you or someone you know may be suffering from diabetic ketoacidosis call 911 or go to the nearest urgent care facility or emergency department.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.