Wednesday, March 11, 2009

High blood sugar “Hyperglycemia”


Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar occurs when levels of sugar in the blood go above range. The correct range for a normal person is to have blood sugar levels between 80-120 mg/dl. Doctors tend to try and keep their diabetic patients under 160 mg/dl. When blood sugar levels go above these ranges the result is hyperglycemia.
What is the cause for high blood sugar? Hyperglycemia can be attributed to various reasons. Here are some of the more common reasons for an episode of high blood sugar for diabetics.
Too many carbohydrates or sugar in a meal. (ex. Pizza or spaghetti contain high amounts of carbohydrates) Carbohydrates turn into sugar after consumption. Not taking enough insulin. Sometimes errors can occur when administering insulin. If that happens your body will not get the proper dose of insulin it needs.
Sick days or emotional stress. Not getting enough exercise.
There are warning signs for high blood sugar. The diagram below shows some of the common side effects that occur when experiencing hyperglycemia.

There are several measures to take when experiencing high blood sugar. These include:
1. Drink water. By drinking liquids you can flush the excess amount of sugar out of your body. It is important that you drink something that does not contain sugar.
2. If your blood sugar continues to stay elevated you will want to monitor for ketones and ketoacidosis. Your healthcare professional needs to be contacted and will assist you if the blood sugar is staying consistently out of range.
3. An increase in your insulin dosage. Contact your healthcare professional to help you make a decision.
4. Exercise. If your condition allows you, exercising will help to bring sugar levels down.

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