What Are the Complications of Hyperglycemia?

Untreated and chronic hyperglycemia can cause serious complications. These include:

• nerve damage (neuropathy)
• kidney damage (nephropathy) or kidney failure
• cardiovascular disease
• eye disease (retinopathy)
• foot problems caused by damaged nerves and poor blood flow
• skin problems, such as bacterial and fungal infections

Emergency Complications

If your blood sugar goes high enough or is too high for a prolonged period of time, you may begin developing symptoms of two serious conditions. They are:

Ketoacidosis

This is a buildup of ketones in your blood and urine. It can be poisonous and might lead to a life-threatening diabetic coma.

Diabetic Hyperosmolar Syndrome

If insulin is present but not working properly, blood glucose levels may get as high as 600 mg/dL. The body cannot use glucose or fat for energy, so the glucose is dumped into the urine, which causes more-frequent urination. If left untreated, hyperosmolar syndrome may lead to life-threatening dehydration and even coma.

How Is Hyperglycemia Prevented?

Good diabetes management and careful monitoring of your blood glucose are both very effective means for preventing hyperglycemia—or stopping it before it gets worse.

Test Regularly

Test and record your blood glucose levels on a regular basis each day. Share this information with your doctor at every appointment.

Count Carbs

Know how many carbohydrates you’re eating in a day, and strive to stay in the range approved by your doctor or nurse educator. Keep this information with your blood sugar levels.

Be Diabetes Smart

Have a plan of action for if and when your blood glucose reaches certain levels. Take your medication as prescribed, being consistent about the amount and timing of your meals and snacks.