Symptoms
It is very important to know the early signs of hyperglycemia if you have type 1 diabetes. If hyperglycemia is left unattended to, in patients with type 1 diabetes [5], it can develop into ketoacidosis in which ketones (toxic acids) accumulate in the blood. This condition can lead to coma or death.
Early symptoms of hyperglycemia
- elevated blood sugar
- headache
- blurred vision [6]
- the rise in thirst or hunger. Sometimes both.
- regular urination (peeing)
These signs are the first to be noticed, it can be tricky because some of them are symptoms of other medical conditions. If any of these symptoms is noticed it should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Additional symptoms
- Loss of weight. Loss in weight indicates that there is an increased amount of glucose in the blood
- Takes a long time for cuts or sores to heal
- Vaginal or skin infection. Uncontrollable glucose levels can cause yeast to overgrow in vaginal areas. The body develops a yeast infection in response to hyperglycemia. Other infections such as pneumonia (respiratory infection) caused by streptococcus pneumoniae are symptoms of high blood sugar levels.
- Fatigue (feeling weak or tired)
Late signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia can cause the accumulation of toxic acids (ketones) in the bloodstream if left unattended for a long time. Symptoms are;
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Abdominal pain
- Coma
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- Fruity-smelling breath
The major step to take when managing a patients’ diabetes is regular checking of blood glucose levels. Ask your doctor how often it should be checked and what level is termed healthy. Regular checking of blood sugar levels and early treatment helps to prevent several complications associated with high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia).