Recognizing high blood sugar: 7 early signs

he World Health Organization defines hyperglycemia as high blood sugar. According to the organization, this condition occurs when blood glucose levels are greater than 7.0 mmol/L (126 mg/dL) when fasting, and greater than 11.0 mmol/L (200 mg/dL) two hours after meals.

Hyperglycemia usually happens at individuals who are diagnosed with diabetes.

It is typically caused either by the destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas or by the body’s resistance to insulin.

Recognizing the early signs on high blood sugar may be essential for preventing complications and reducing the risks of other health issues.

Constant Thirst

People with high blood sugar feel the urge to drink plenty of water because the kidneys are unable to absorb excess glucose. The body then releases this excess through urination, which also pulls other fluids, leading to thirst.

Increased Eating Habits

High blood sugar interferes with the body’s ability to convert food into energy. As sugar can’t get into the cells properly and stays in the blood instead, the brain misinterprets this as a energy shortage, leading to extensive hunger.

Small Bumps

People with high blood sugar are likely to experience elevated levels of triglyceride, a type of fat that circulates in the bloodstream, which can lead to small bumps on the skin. This condition is known as eruptive xanthomatosis.

Chronic Fatigue

When the body lacks insulin, cells cannot properly digest glucose from the food you eat, and sugar spills out into the bloodstream.

This leads to the cells being starved of energy, which makes you tired and causes fatigue.

Headaches and Blurry Vision

High blood sugar may lead to fluid buildup behind the eyes, causing swelling that distorts vision and makes focusing difficult. The pressure may also induce headaches, affecting productivity and the quality of life.

Tingling and Numbness in Hands and Feet

When blood sugar stays high for too long, it can hurt the nerves in your body. This causes symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or pain—especially in the hands and feet.

Skin Tags

Skin tags are harmless growths that appear on every part of the body, but mostly on the underarms, groin, neck, and eyelashes. One of the reasons of their appearance is high blood sugar.

Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.