5 Warning Signs You Might Have High Blood Sugar and How to Manage It

High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, can lead to serious health issues like diabetes, heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney problems. However, many people may not even realize their blood sugar is elevated. According to the CDC, more than one-third of Americans have high blood sugar, but most are unaware. This article will explore five key warning signs of high blood sugar and how to take steps to manage it before it leads to more severe conditions.

What Is High Blood Sugar?

High blood sugar occurs when your body cannot effectively process glucose (sugar) in the blood. Normal blood sugar levels range from 70 to 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) while fasting and below 140 mg/dL after eating. Prolonged periods of high blood sugar can lead to prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Recognizing the early warning signs can help prevent these conditions from developing.

1. Unusual Fatigue

One of the early signs of high blood sugar is feeling unusually tired or sluggish. While fatigue can have many causes, high blood sugar can make you feel more exhausted than usual, even if you’re getting enough rest.

• Why It Happens: High blood sugar affects the way your body uses energy. Without enough insulin to help glucose enter your cells, your body can’t effectively convert sugar into energy.
• What to Do: If you notice persistent fatigue without an obvious reason, it’s worth seeing a doctor to check for high blood sugar or other health concerns.

2. Frequent Urination

Another tell-tale sign of high blood sugar is the need to urinate more often. This happens because your kidneys are trying to eliminate excess glucose from your bloodstream.

• Why It Happens: When your blood sugar is high, your kidneys work overtime to filter and excrete the excess sugar through urine. As a result, you may find yourself running to the bathroom more often.
• What to Do: If you notice a change in your bathroom habits, it’s a good idea to get your blood sugar levels checked, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.

3. Increased Thirst

Frequent urination can lead to dehydration, which may cause you to feel unusually thirsty. This excessive thirst is often a sign that your body is struggling to manage high blood sugar levels.

• Why It Happens: As your kidneys work to flush out excess glucose, they also pull water from your body, leaving you dehydrated and thirsty.
• What to Do: If you feel thirsty all the time, even after drinking water, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider and get tested for high blood sugar.

4. Slow-Healing Wounds or Frequent Infections

High blood sugar can interfere with your body’s ability to heal itself. Cuts, sores, or wounds that take longer to heal, as well as frequent infections, can be warning signs of elevated blood sugar levels.

• Why It Happens: High levels of glucose in your blood can affect circulation and weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to repair tissues and fight off infections.
• What to Do: If you have wounds that are slow to heal or are experiencing frequent infections, speak to a doctor about testing for high blood sugar.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss

While weight gain is often associated with diabetes, unexplained weight loss can also be a sign of high blood sugar, particularly in type 1 diabetes. In these cases, your body may lose calories as it tries to expel excess glucose through urine.

• Why It Happens: When your body can’t use glucose for energy, it starts breaking down fat and muscle for fuel, leading to weight loss.
• What to Do: If you’re losing weight without trying or noticing other symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Sudden weight loss can also be a sign of other serious health issues.

How to Manage High Blood Sugar

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. High blood sugar can be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Here are some strategies to help control your blood sugar levels:

• Healthy Diet: Focus on eating whole foods, including plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit your intake of sugary foods and simple carbohydrates.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help your body use insulin more effectively, lowering blood sugar levels.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your kidneys flush out excess glucose.
• Monitor Blood Sugar: If you have high blood sugar or are at risk for diabetes, regular monitoring is essential. There are wearable devices available that can track your blood sugar levels in real-time.
• Get Enough Rest: Adequate sleep and stress management are also important for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

As Barbara Eichorst, a registered dietitian and vice president at the American Diabetes Association, notes, “Eating healthy, physical activity, sleep, and stress management benefit people with diabetes, prediabetes, and anyone who wants to feel better on a daily basis.”

Conclusion

Recognizing the warning signs of high blood sugar can help prevent more serious health issues like diabetes. Fatigue, frequent urination, excessive thirst, slow-healing wounds, and unexplained weight loss are all potential indicators. By making simple lifestyle changes and monitoring your health, you can keep your blood sugar in check and reduce the risk of complications.