Symptoms of acute hyperglycemia
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Common Symptoms of Acute Hyperglycemia
Acute hyperglycemia, or a sudden spike in blood glucose levels, can cause a range of symptoms affecting both the body and the mind. People experiencing acute hyperglycemia often report feeling increased sadness, anxiety, and reduced energy. Cognitive symptoms include slower information processing, impaired working memory, and reduced attention span, making it harder to think clearly or focus on tasks 17.
Mood and Cognitive Impairment in Acute Hyperglycemia
Research shows that acute hyperglycemia can quickly lead to a noticeable decline in mood, with individuals feeling more dysphoric and less energetic. These mood changes are often accompanied by increased sadness and anxiety. At the same time, cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and information processing speed are impaired, which can interfere with daily activities and decision-making 17.
Physical and Organ-Specific Symptoms
Acute hyperglycemia can also cause physical symptoms and organ-specific damage. In the kidneys, it can lead to tubular injury, which may present as swelling of kidney cells and increased levels of markers like urinary microalbumin and other proteins in the urine. These changes are dose-dependent, meaning the higher the blood glucose, the more severe the injury .
In the heart, acute hyperglycemia is linked to worse outcomes during events like acute myocardial infarction (heart attack). It can increase the risk of heart tissue damage, worsen inflammation, and lead to higher rates of mortality. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, and other signs of heart distress, especially in those with underlying heart conditions 356.
Immune System and Infection Risk
Acute hyperglycemia impairs the immune system’s ability to fight infections. It reduces the activity of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell), impairs the function of the complement system, and alters cytokine patterns, making the body more susceptible to infections and inflammation. This can result in symptoms like fever, increased risk of infections, and slower healing .
Neurological Symptoms and Delirium
In critically ill patients, especially those with sepsis, acute hyperglycemia is a risk factor for delirium—a state of confusion and reduced awareness. It can worsen neuroinflammation, disrupt the blood-brain barrier, and lead to cognitive impairment, including memory loss and difficulty concentrating .
Conclusion
Acute hyperglycemia can cause a wide range of symptoms, including mood changes, cognitive impairment, organ-specific injuries (especially to the kidneys and heart), weakened immune response, and increased risk of delirium in critically ill patients. Recognizing these symptoms early is important for prompt management and to prevent further complications 1234567.
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