Symptoms of high blood sugar
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Symptoms of High Blood Sugar
Frequent Urination and Increased Thirst
One of the most common symptoms of high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, is frequent urination. This occurs because the kidneys work harder to remove the excess glucose from the blood, leading to increased urine production. As a result, individuals often experience increased thirst as the body attempts to replenish the lost fluids .
Increased Hunger
Another prevalent symptom of high blood sugar is increased hunger. Despite having high levels of glucose in the blood, the body's cells are unable to utilize it effectively due to insufficient insulin or insulin resistance. This leads to a state where the body feels starved for energy, prompting increased hunger .
Fatigue and Blurred Vision
High blood sugar levels can also cause fatigue and blurred vision. Fatigue results from the body's inability to use glucose for energy efficiently, while blurred vision occurs due to changes in fluid levels that cause the lenses in the eyes to swell.
Difficulty Concentrating and Weight Loss
Difficulty concentrating and unexplained weight loss are additional symptoms of hyperglycemia. The brain requires glucose for optimal function, and when glucose is not properly utilized, cognitive functions can be impaired. Weight loss occurs because the body starts breaking down muscle and fat for energy in the absence of sufficient glucose uptake.
Slow-Healing Wounds
High blood sugar levels can impair the body's ability to heal wounds. This is due to the negative impact of hyperglycemia on the immune system and blood circulation, which are crucial for the healing process.
Serious Complications
If left untreated, high blood sugar can lead to severe complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, and even death. Long-term complications include cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, foot ulcers, and damage to the eyes.
Conclusion
Recognizing the symptoms of high blood sugar is crucial for early intervention and management of diabetes. Frequent urination, increased thirst, increased hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, weight loss, and slow-healing wounds are key indicators of hyperglycemia. Timely medical attention can prevent severe complications and improve the quality of life for individuals with diabetes.
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