High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) is a serious condition that often develops in people with diabetes. Early signs include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. If untreated, it can lead to dangerous complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart problems.
- Early signs:
- Increased thirst and hunger
- Frequent urination
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue or weakness
- Later signs (if untreated):
- Unexplained weight loss
- Slow-healing cuts and sores
- Skin infections or yeast infections
- Numbness or tingling in hands/feet
- Fruity-smelling breath (sign of ketoacidosis)
⚠️ Emergency Warning Signs (Seek Immediate Help)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Deep, labored breathing (Kussmaul breathing)
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
- Blood sugar consistently above 240 mg/dL with ketones in urine
🩺 Causes of High Blood Sugar
- Insulin resistance (common in type 2 diabetes)
- Skipping insulin or medication doses
- Illness, infection, or surgery (stress hormones raise glucose)
- Poor diet (high sugar or refined carbs)
- Physical inactivity
- Certain medications (steroids, blood pressure drugs, psychiatric meds)
🚨 Complications if Untreated
- Short-term: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) — both life-threatening emergencies.
- Long-term:
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
- Eye disease (retinopathy → blindness)
- Kidney damage (nephropathy → kidney failure)
- Heart disease and stroke
✅ Prevention & Management
- Follow a diabetes meal plan (balanced carbs, avoid excess sugar/starch).
- Take prescribed medication/insulin consistently.
- Monitor blood sugar regularly (home testing or lab tests).
- Exercise regularly to improve insulin sensitivity.
- Manage stress (since cortisol raises glucose).
- Stay hydrated and avoid skipping meals.
Bottom line: High blood sugar is common but dangerous if ignored. In Punjab’s hot climate, dehydration can worsen symptoms, so drinking water and monitoring glucose is especially important. If you notice sudden severe symptoms like fruity breath, vomiting, or confusion, seek emergency care immediately.