What You Should Know About Elevated Blood Sugar

Thursday, July 16th, 2009 at 1:14 pm

What High Blood Glucose Means

High Blood Glucose is a serious condition that could lead to adult onset diabetes. When you consume food your digestive system turns the food you eat into glucose.

Glucose is a form of sugar which all of your cells use for energy. Insulin is the hormone that allows your body to absorb the glucose and turn it into energy.

When you have elevated blood sugar levels your cells become insulin resistant. This means there is too much glucose in your blood. High blood glucose level is a major sign that you may have diabetes or pre-diabetes.

According to the American Diabetes Association having fasting blood glucose levels between 100 and 125 means you have pre-diabetes. For numbers over 125 you have diabetes. You have healthy blood glucose levels if the FBG is fewer than 100.

There are many different symptoms of high blood sugar levels, including unusual thirst and blurred vision. Other signs include unusual weight loss and hunger. Another side effect of having high glucose levels is excessive urination. Your body will wash away extra glucose via urine.

Diabetes is hereditary thus be sure to inform your healthcare professional if it runs in your family. Early treatment is essential, as diabetes can be reversed with proper diet and exercise. High blood glucose can be lowered by reducing sugar intake, eating a well balanced diet, and exercise.

When blood glucose was high, it can be caused by a variety of outside factors. Stress increases your glucose levels. If you did not have high blood glucose and started taking other medications contact your healthcare professional. It is important to treat high blood glucose levels right away.

You can check your glucose levels at home by using a blood glucose test kit (sold at pharmacies or via prescription). You prick your finger before and after a meal and it will report your glucose levels. Make note of how different foods affect your reading. Avoid carbohydrates and sugars, as they provide a spike in glucose.

Elevated blood sugar levels can eventually lead to HDK, which means your body, has way too much glucose. Persons who test positive for HDK need immediate medical treatment and should be taken to the emergency room. Side effects include fainting, excessive urination, dehydration, and weakness. Treatment for HDK is usually via an IV.

Do not be alarmed if you have high blood glucose concentration on one test. There are a number of things that could have gone wrong. However, check with your doctor to arrange for another test. If fasting is required, ensure that you follow all written guidelines.

Lowering your high blood glucose reading is essential. Consider going to see an endocrinologist for treatment. Work with a nutritionist to develop a healthy eating pattern and workout regimen. An average person should eat only 2,000 calories and get at least thirty minutes of exercise per day.

Losing weight is key to lowering your high glucose level. You will see major results if you stick to a cardiovascular exercise program.