Hyperglycaemia (High Blood Sugar)

Hyperglycaemia, also known as high blood sugar, is a condition characterized by an elevated level of glucose in the blood. It occurs when the body either cannot produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.

Causes of Hyperglycaemia

Hyperglycaemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Diabetes mellitus (type 1 and type 2)
• Pancreatitis or pancreatic surgery
• Certain medications, such as steroids and certain psychiatric medications
• Hormonal imbalances, such as Cushing's syndrome or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Stress and anxiety
• Poor diet and lack of exercise

Symptoms of Hyperglycaemia

The symptoms of hyperglycaemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common symptoms include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue and weakness
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dry mouth and skin
• Flushing of the skin
• Slow healing of cuts and wounds
• Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet

Diagnosis of Hyperglycaemia

Hyperglycaemia is typically diagnosed using a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests, including:

• Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test: measures blood sugar levels after an overnight fast
• Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): measures blood sugar levels after consuming a sugary drink
• Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test: measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months
• Random plasma glucose test: measures blood sugar levels at any time of day

Treatments for Hyperglycaemia

The treatment for hyperglycaemia depends on the underlying cause, but common treatments include:

• Lifestyle modifications:
  • Healthy diet: focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and limiting sugary drinks and refined carbohydrates
  • Regular exercise: aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week
  • Weight loss: if overweight or obese
  • Stress management: using techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises
• Medications:
  • Metformin: a first-line medication for type 2 diabetes that helps improve insulin sensitivity
  • Sulfonylureas: stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin
  • Meglitinides: stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin
  • Thiazolidinediones: improve insulin sensitivity
  • GLP-1 receptor agonists: help regulate blood sugar levels and promote weight loss
  • SGLT2 inhibitors: help remove excess glucose from the body through urine
• Insulin therapy:
  • Basal insulin: long-acting insulin that helps regulate blood sugar levels throughout the day
  • Bolus insulin: fast-acting insulin that helps regulate blood sugar levels after meals
  • Premixed insulin: a combination of basal and bolus insulin

Complications of Hyperglycaemia

If left untreated or poorly managed, hyperglycaemia can lead to a range of complications, including:

• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body produces high levels of ketones
• Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar): a condition that occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Kidney damage (nephropathy)
• Eye damage (retinopathy)
• Foot damage (ulcers, infections, and amputations)
• Heart disease and stroke

Prevention of Hyperglycaemia

To prevent hyperglycaemia, it is essential to:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a balanced diet that is low in sugar and refined carbohydrates
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Manage stress and anxiety
• Get enough sleep
• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly, if diagnosed with diabetes