Hyperglycaemia Symptoms

Quick Glance: Common Hyperglycaemia Symptoms

The early warning signs of hyperglycaemia vary by individuals, depending on blood glucose levels and the duration of its development. Common symptoms of hyperglycaemia include:

• Feeling hungry even after eating (polyphagia)

• Feeling thirsty (polydipsia)

• Frequent urination (polyuria)

• Tiredness or low energy levels

• Blurred vision

• Dry mouth

• Unexplained weight loss

• Slow-healing wounds

Symptoms of Hyperglycaemia That Should Not Be Ignored

Some hyperglycaemia symptoms can develop slowly, while others indicate that high blood glucose levels are becoming serious and need immediate attention. Some of these symptoms that should not be ignored are:

Why Do Hyperglycaemia Symptoms Occur?

Hyperglycaemia occurs when the body does not produce insulin or cannot use it properly. Insulin promotes the absorption of glucose from the blood into the body’s cells, where it is used for energy. When this mechanism is disrupted, blood glucose continues to rise.

As a result, the kidneys work overtime to filter excess glucose out via urine. It causes excessive urination and leads to dehydration and a strong feeling of thirst. Moreover, less glucose is available to the cells for energy, and the person may feel weak, tired, and hungry.

When the blood glucose is significantly high, the body may also start to use fat for energy, generate ketones, and lead to life-threatening conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis.

Symptoms of Hyperglycaemia That Require Immediate Medical Attention

Most patients with mild hyperglycaemia do not require emergency care. Yet, a few signs indicate that the blood sugar level is too high or that a serious complication, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS), is developing.

Seek emergency medical attention if faced with any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down

• Rapid or deep breathing

• Severe abdominal pain

• Fruity-smelling breath

• Confusion, extreme drowsiness, or difficulty staying awake

• Loss of consciousness

• Signs of severe dehydration, such as extreme dizziness, fainting, or confusion

Symptoms of Hyperglycaemia-Specific Conditions

Some hyperglycaemia-specific conditions and their symptoms are as follows:

Can You Have Hyperglycaemia Without Symptoms?

Yes, hyperglycaemia does not always cause noticeable symptoms, especially in earlier stages or if the blood sugar is only mildly elevated. For many people, high blood glucose is found during a routine health check rather than because they feel unwell.

Over time, consistently high blood sugar levels can damage your blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and kidneys, even before any symptoms appear. That is why it is so important for people with high blood glucose risk to be checked regularly, including those with obesity, a family history of diabetes or who previously had gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or prediabetes.

Symptom-free hyperglycaemia is also common in the early stages of Type 2 diabetes, but long-term high blood glucose should be evaluated by a medical professional to determine the cause and avoid long-term complications.

When Can Hyperglycaemia Symptoms Become Life-Threatening?

Extremely high blood sugar levels can impact several organs and lead to a medical emergency if left untreated. Early recognition of these warning signs is crucial to avoid serious complications. The long-term symptoms of hyperglycaemia that can become life-threatening are:

How are Hyperglycaemia Symptoms Diagnosed?

Symptoms alone do not confirm hyperglycaemia because they may overlap with other medical conditions. Doctors may use a physical examination, along with blood tests, to determine whether someone has hyperglycaemia and assess if any related complications exist or are developing.

The following table lists the diagnostic tests used to detect hyperglycaemia: