Hyperglycemia, or hyper as it is often called, occurs when the blood sugar level is too high typically above 15 mmol/l. In this section you can read about the symptoms of hyperglycemia and the precautions you must take to avoid it.
What is hyperglycaemia?
Hyperglycaemia occurs when blood sugar rises above normal level. It can happen after you've eaten a big meal or when you are ill. Hyperglycaemia is not usually a serious condition if the elevation in blood sugar is brief, but extremely high blood sugars can become a medical emergency if not recognized and treated appropriately. Furthermore, prolonged periods of even moderately elevated blood sugar can lead to serious diabetic complications.
High blood sugar makes you
High blood sugar will make you thirsty, and you will have to urinate more often. You may also feel hungrier than usual. You'll often feel more tired and sleepy. You may have blurred vision and cramps in your legs. These symptoms are similar to commonest early signs of diabetes. You may have experienced some of them when your diabetes was first diagnosed. However, with moderately elevated blood sugar you may not experience any of these symptoms, but it can damage your blood vessels and cause complications.
If your blood sugar is frequently high
Test your blood sugar. If your blood sugar is frequently too high, you and your doctor may need to discuss changing your treatment. It is extremely important for your long-term health to keep your blood sugar levels within the ‘normal’ range.
Your blood sugar rises if you
Your blood sugar can easily rise if you do not remember to take your treatment, or if you eat too much at mealtimes, especially if you eat food rich in carbohydrates. It can also rise if you are ill and have a fever, exercise less than usual, or are exposed to physical or emotional stress. Your blood sugar may also go up if you're about to have your menstrual period.
To avoid high blood sugar
Following a daily routine helps to avoid high blood sugar. You can often keep your blood sugar in balance merely by sticking to a routine in the timing of your meals and medication, and keeping to a regular schedule of exercise. However, some treatments give you more flexibility in your daily life. If your blood sugar frequently goes too high, your doctor will recommend adjustments to your treatment to help you regain control.
When you are ill
The stress of illness tends to increase blood sugar, so it is particularly important to be aware of hyperglycemia and to test your blood sugar when you are ill. It is important to continue taking your medication throughout your illness, and you may need to make adjustments to your treatment. You should discuss with your doctor how you, as an individual, need to manage your diabetes when you become unwell.
Will I need insulin when I am ill?
You may find that, although you normally control your diabetes very well with diet and/or tablets, your usual treatment becomes temporarily inadequate to deal with the extra blood sugar caused by your illness. Occasionally insulin injections are needed. This does not happen to everyone, but it is a possibility that your doctor will discuss with you if it becomes necessary. If you do need insulin under these circumstances, you may be able to return to your normal treatment as soon as you are well again.
Sick day rules - fluid & sugar
What you need when you are ill is fluid and sugar - and someone to look after you. Drink 2 to 3 litres of water every 24 hours. Drink more if you are still thirsty. If you can't eat regular meals, have nourishing fluids. Most people can take soft drinks or soups even when they are too nauseated to eat solid foods. If you cannot even take fluids, then you will need to see your doctor.
APP/KOL/AC 22/02/07