High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can cause a range of symptoms, although not everyone experiences all of them. Also, these symptoms can have causes other than high blood sugar, so testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Excessive thirst.
- Frequent urination.
- Increased hunger despite eating.
- Fatigue or low energy.
- Blurred vision.
- Dry mouth.
- Unexplained weight loss (more common with untreated diabetes).
- Slow-healing cuts or sores.
- Frequent infections (such as skin or yeast infections).
- Dry, itchy skin.
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, especially with long-standing high blood sugar.
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling unusually tired.
These symptoms can be associated with conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes or Type 1 Diabetes, but they are not specific to diabetes. A blood glucose test or other appropriate testing is needed for diagnosis.
Seek urgent medical care if high blood sugar is accompanied by:
- Severe vomiting.
- Confusion or extreme drowsiness.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Severe dehydration.
- Fruity-smelling breath.
Those symptoms may indicate serious complications such as Diabetic ketoacidosis or Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, which require emergency treatment.
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms suggestive of high blood sugar, it’s a good idea to arrange a medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.
