If your blood sugar is high (a condition called hyperglycemia), you may experience symptoms like intense thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches. These signs occur because excess glucose in your bloodstream pulls fluid from tissues, leaving you dehydrated and tired. Severe cases can lead to unexplained weight loss, slow-healing wounds, or tingling in your hands and feet. Recognizing these symptoms early is key to preventing complications, especially for those with diabetes. Below, we’ll break down how high blood sugar affects your body and what steps to take next.
How Do You Feel If Your Blood Sugar Is High?
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Recommended Reading: What Is The Main Cause Of Diabetes?
Common Symptoms of High Blood Sugar
Hyperglycemia symptoms range from mild to severe. Here’s what to watch for:
Early Signs:
- Increased thirst and dry mouth
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Fatigue or weakness
- Blurred vision (due to fluid shifts in the eyes)
- Headaches
Moderate to Severe Symptoms:
- Unexplained weight loss (your body burns fat for energy instead of glucose)
- Slow-healing cuts or infections
- Tingling or numbness in extremities (a sign of nerve damage)
- Persistent nausea or dizziness
- Fruity-smelling breath (a red flag for diabetic ketoacidosis)
What Causes High Blood Sugar?
Several factors can spike blood glucose levels:
- Insufficient insulin (common in diabetes).
- Eating carb-heavy meals without balancing medication.
- Stress or illness, which triggers hormone releases that raise glucose.
- Inactivity or lack of exercise.
- Medication mismanagement (e.g., missed insulin doses).
When Is High Blood Sugar Dangerous?
Blood sugar levels above 180 mg/dL after eating or 300 mg/dL fasting are critical. Danger signs include:
- Confusion or trouble breathing
- Severe dehydration
- Ketones in urine (use a test strip to check)
- Persistent vomiting
Seek emergency care if levels stay above 250 mg/dL, as this risks diabetic coma or organ damage.
How to Manage Elevated Blood Sugar
- Hydrate: Water helps flush excess glucose.
- Adjust medication: Consult your doctor about insulin or oral meds.
- Monitor carbs: Opt for low-glycemic foods like leafy greens and lean proteins.
- Exercise: Light activity (e.g., walking) helps cells absorb glucose.
- Test regularly: Track levels before/after meals and adjust habits.
FAQs
Q: Can non-diabetics get high blood sugar?
A: Yes! Stress, illness, or certain medications can temporarily spike glucose.
Q: How quickly can you lower blood sugar?
A: With water, exercise, and fast-acting insulin, levels may drop within 1–2 hours.
Q: Does high blood sugar always cause symptoms?
A: Not always. Regular testing is crucial, especially for those with diabetes.
Final Takeaways
High blood sugar often announces itself through thirst, fatigue, or blurry vision. While mild cases can be managed with hydration and diet, persistently high levels demand medical attention. Stay proactive by monitoring your levels, eating balanced meals, and working closely with your healthcare team.
