Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia refers to high blood glucose levels. It is often associated with diabetes. Glucose levels are a result of the breakdown of food, especially foods high in carbohydrates and sugars. Normally blood glucose levels are controlled by the hormone insulin which is released from the pancreas. The role of insulin is to move glucose from the bloodstream into every cell of the body, including muscle, fat, and liver cells, where the glucose is then used as a source of fuel or energy for metabolic processes.
 Hyperglycemia | |
| Causes | Dietary Factors, Dehydration, Lack of movement |
|---|---|
| See Also | Endocrine Conditions, Diabetes, Insulin resistance, Obesity, Hypertension, Insomnia |
| Books | Books on Endocrine Diseases |
| Articles | Articles on Endocrine Conditions |
Hyperglycemia reflects a lack of insulin production or insulin resistance, or both. The result is that the glucose stays in the blood and is not available by the cells as a fuel.
Symptoms
Some people have no or only mild symptoms, for others the symptoms of hyperglycemia include:
- blurred vision
- excess thirst
- fatigue
- frequent urination
- hunger
- weight loss
Complications
Complications of high blood sugar include:
- body stores fat and stops the metabolic burning of fat
- increase in oxidative damage on a cellular level
- promotes inflammation
- increases free fatty acids, triglycerides, and LDL Cholesterol
- affects sex hormone regulation
- weakens the blood vessels in the eyes
- promotes blood clotting
- increases the retention of sodium and the loss of magnesium and potassium.
Associated Conditions
Prolonged hyperglycemia leads to Diabetes. Other conditions associated with hyperglycemia include:
