High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, can be a subtle but serious condition, especially if it remains untreated over time. Recognizing the signs early can be crucial in managing blood sugar levels and preventing long-term complications. Here are nine signs that may indicate elevated blood sugar levels, according to experts:
- Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination: One of the most common signs of high blood sugar is an increased need to drink fluids. When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys work harder to filter and absorb the excess sugar. This often results in frequent urination, which can lead to dehydration and a persistent thirst as the body tries to compensate for fluid loss.
- Extreme Fatigue: High blood sugar can affect your energy levels significantly. When glucose cannot enter cells effectively due to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin, your cells are deprived of the energy they need. This leads to feelings of extreme fatigue and lethargy, even if you’re getting adequate rest.
- Blurred Vision: Elevated blood sugar can cause changes in the fluid levels of the eyes, leading to blurred or distorted vision. This occurs because high blood glucose levels can affect the lens of the eye, making it difficult to focus properly. Persistent blurred vision should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, as it can be a sign of diabetes or other related conditions.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Even with a normal or increased appetite, individuals with high blood sugar might experience unexplained weight loss. When the body can’t use glucose effectively, it starts breaking down fat and muscle for energy, leading to weight loss despite normal eating habits.
- Slow-Healing Sores and Frequent Infections: High blood sugar levels can impair the body’s ability to heal wounds and fight off infections. High glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to poor circulation and reduced immune response. This makes it more difficult for the body to recover from cuts, sores, and infections.
- Increased Hunger: Also known as polyphagia, increased hunger can occur when cells are deprived of glucose and signal the brain that more food is needed. Despite eating more, individuals might still feel hungry because their cells are not receiving the energy they need due to insulin issues.
- Dry Mouth and Itchy Skin: Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to dehydration, which manifests as a dry mouth and itchy skin. High blood sugar can also affect the body’s ability to retain moisture, leading to dry, flaky skin.
- Numbness or Tingling in Extremities: Prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage nerves, particularly in the hands and feet. This condition, known as peripheral neuropathy, can cause numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in these areas. It is a common complication of unmanaged diabetes.
- Headaches: Chronic high blood sugar can lead to headaches due to dehydration, fluctuating glucose levels, and changes in blood circulation. Frequent or severe headaches might be a sign that your blood sugar levels are not well controlled.
If you notice these signs, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Managing blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring can prevent complications and improve overall health. Early intervention and management are key to living a healthy life with diabetes or prediabetes.
By Everydayhealth