7 Alarming Signs Your Blood Sugar May Be Too High
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can develop gradually or suddenly. Some people have no symptoms at first, while others notice warning signs that should not be ignored.
1. Excessive thirst
High blood sugar causes the body to lose more water through urine, leading to persistent thirst.
2. Frequent urination
You may find yourself urinating more often than usual, including waking up multiple times at night.
3. Increased hunger
Even after eating, you may still feel hungry because your body’s cells are not using glucose effectively.
4. Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy is a common symptom of elevated blood sugar.
5. Blurred vision
High glucose levels can temporarily affect the shape of the eye’s lens, causing blurry vision. Persistent or sudden vision changes should be evaluated promptly.
6. Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections
High blood sugar can impair healing and increase the risk of infections, including skin, gum, and urinary tract infections.
7. Unexplained weight loss
In untreated diabetes, the body may begin breaking down fat and muscle for energy, leading to weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite.
When to seek urgent medical care
Seek immediate medical attention if high blood sugar is accompanied by:
- Confusion or difficulty staying awake
- Severe weakness
- Rapid or deep breathing
- Persistent vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fruity-smelling breath
These symptoms can indicate serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), which require emergency treatment.
What to do if you think your blood sugar is high
- Check your blood glucose if you have a glucose meter.
- Drink water unless a healthcare professional has told you to restrict fluids.
- Take diabetes medications or insulin as prescribed.
- Contact your healthcare provider if your readings remain high or you develop concerning symptoms.
If you have risk factors for diabetes—such as being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or a history of gestational diabetes—and you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s a good idea to arrange a medical evaluation. A simple blood test can help determine whether high blood sugar is the cause.
