What is Hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia (hyperglycaemia) is when blood sugar (glucose) levels are too high.

Hyperglycemia can be due to excess eating, or through lack of insulin. 

The most common symptoms are:

• Increased thirst.
• Dry mouth.
• Dry skin.
• Low energy levels.
• Hunger (even after eating).
• Frequent urination.
• Blurred vision.

  If the condition is not treated, it can lead to coma and death.  Anyone found in a coma may be glycemic and should be receive medical attention quickly.

  Definitions:

  Fasting hyperglycemia is defined as a blood sugar greater than 90-130 mg/dl (milligrams per deciliter) after fasting for at least 8 hours.

  Postprandial or after-meal hyperglycemia is defined as a blood sugar usually greater than 180 mg/dl. In people without diabetes, postprandial or post-meal sugars seldom go over 140 mg/dl but can occasionally after a large meal.

  In such circumstances a 1-2 hour post-meal glucose level can reach 180 mg/dl but consistently elevated high post-meal glucose levels can be an indicator that there is high risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

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