What Is Hyperglycemia?

Signs, Causes, and Why High Blood Sugar Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Hyperglycemia may sound like a technical term, but it’s simply the medical word for high blood sugar. While a temporary rise in blood glucose after eating is normal, consistently elevated blood sugar can indicate a serious underlying condition most commonly diabetes.

Unchecked hyperglycemia can lead to long-term damage to the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. In extreme cases, it may even become life-threatening. The good news is that hyperglycemia is both detectable and manageable, especially when identified early.

In this article, we’ll explore what hyperglycemia is, its common signs and causes, and how you can take steps to prevent and control it.

What Is Hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia is defined as having higher-than-normal blood glucose levels. Glucose is the main source of energy for your body’s cells, and it comes from the food you eat, especially carbohydrates.

After eating, your body releases insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, to help transport glucose into cells. When insulin isn’t produced properly or doesn’t work effectively (as in diabetes), glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of being used for energy. This leads to hyperglycemia.

What Are Normal Blood Sugar Levels?

Blood sugar is typically measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Here are general guidelines:

Hyperglycemia is generally diagnosed when:

• Fasting blood sugar ≥ 126 mg/dL
  
• Random blood sugar ≥ 200 mg/dL, especially with symptoms
  
• HbA1c ≥ 6.5% (average blood sugar over 3 months)
  

What Are the Symptoms of Hyperglycemia?

In early stages, hyperglycemia may cause no noticeable symptoms. But as blood sugar continues to rise, you may begin to experience:

• Frequent urination (polyuria)
  
• Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Blurred vision
  
• Fatigue and weakness
  
• Headaches
  
• Unexplained weight loss
  
• Increased hunger
  
• Slow-healing wounds or infections 

In severe cases, especially in untreated diabetes, hyperglycemia can progress to:

• Ketoacidosis (in type 1 diabetes): a dangerous buildup of acids in the blood
  
• Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS) (in type 2 diabetes): extreme dehydration and confusion, requiring emergency treatment
  

What Causes Hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia can result from a variety of factors. Common causes include:

1. Diabetes Mellitus

The most common cause of chronic hyperglycemia. It can be:

• Type 1 diabetes – the body doesn’t make insulin
  
• Type 2 diabetes – the body resists insulin or doesn’t use it well
  
• Gestational diabetes – high blood sugar during pregnancy 

2. Poor Dietary Habits

• High intake of sugar, refined carbs, or large meals
  
• Skipping insulin or oral medications in people with diabetes 

3. Physical Inactivity

Exercise helps cells absorb glucose. Lack of movement can raise blood sugar levels.

4. Stress and Illness

Hormones released during stress or infection (like cortisol or adrenaline) can raise blood glucose.

5. Certain Medications

Steroids, some diuretics, antipsychotics, and beta-blockers may interfere with glucose regulation.

6. Hormonal Conditions

Disorders like Cushing’s syndrome or acromegaly can cause elevated blood sugar.

How Is Hyperglycemia Diagnosed?

Hyperglycemia is diagnosed through blood tests, which may include:

• Fasting plasma glucose (FPG)
  
• Random glucose test
  
• Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)
  
• HbA1c – gives a 2–3 month average of blood sugar 

At Erdem Hospital, our endocrinology specialists provide comprehensive diabetes screening and personalized care plans, using the latest diagnostic technology.

What Are the Risks of Untreated Hyperglycemia?

Prolonged high blood sugar damages blood vessels and organs, increasing the risk of:

• Cardiovascular disease (heart attack, stroke)
  
• Kidney damage (nephropathy)
  
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
  
• Eye problems (retinopathy)
  
• Poor wound healing, infections, or amputations
  

That’s why early detection and control of blood sugar is critical even in people without a formal diabetes diagnosis.

How Is Hyperglycemia Treated?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Strategies may include:

1. Lifestyle Modifications

• Balanced diet: Limit sugary and processed foods; focus on whole grains, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats
  
• Regular physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes per week
  
• Weight management: Losing even 5–10% of body weight can improve insulin sensitivity
  
• Hydration: Helps flush excess glucose from the body

2. Medications

• Oral drugs: Such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or SGLT2 inhibitors
  
• Injectables: GLP-1 receptor agonists or insulin therapy

3. Monitoring

• Frequent blood glucose testing at home or via continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)

4. Addressing Underlying Conditions

• Treating infections, adjusting medications, and managing stress levels 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can hyperglycemia go away on its own?

Mild hyperglycemia (after eating or stress) may normalize on its own. However, chronic high blood sugar needs medical management, especially if related to diabetes.

2. What should I do if my blood sugar is too high?

If it’s a one-time spike, drink water, avoid carbs, and take a walk. If it stays high or you feel unwell, contact a doctor immediately, especially if you’re diabetic.

3. How is hyperglycemia different from hypoglycemia?

Hyperglycemia is high blood sugar, while hypoglycemia is low blood sugar. Both can be dangerous and may occur in people with diabetes.

4. Is hyperglycemia only a concern for diabetics?

No. While most common in diabetes, it can also occur in people with metabolic syndrome, during acute illness, or due to medications or hormonal disorders.

5. Can children get hyperglycemia?

Yes. Children with type 1 diabetes often present with hyperglycemia as their first symptom. It can also occur in obese children or those with insulin resistance.

Don’t Let High Blood Sugar Go Unnoticed

Hyperglycemia may not cause immediate harm, but over time it can quietly damage your body’s vital systems. Fortunately, it’s measurable, manageable, and often reversible especially when caught early.

At Erdem Hospital, we’re committed to helping patients understand, monitor, and control their blood sugar through personalized treatment plans, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support backed by over 37 years of clinical experience.