Hyperglycemia
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - R73
What is hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia is the term used for elevated blood glucose levels, commonly known as blood sugar. It can be temporary and caused by a high-carbohydrate diet, certain medications, or stressful situations such as infections. If it remains chronically high, it is a sign of diabetes.
Symptoms
Hyperglycemia usually does not cause symptoms. However, spikes in blood sugar may lead to: Increased urination, excessive thirst, intense hunger, weight loss, blurred vision and mental confusion. Persistent hyperglycemia, as seen in diabetes, can lead to various complications.
Causes
Hyperglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels rise. Diabetes is a common cause, but it can also result from diet, side effects of medications, or stressful situations such as infections.
Diagnosis
Hyperglycemia is usually detected through blood tests that measure blood sugar levels.
Prevention Method
The risk of developing hyperglycemia can be reduced through lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, weight loss, and physical activity.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of hyperglycemia. If it is an isolated case, the body tends to recover on its own. In diabetes, treatment is based on lifestyle changes and medication.
Duration
Hyperglycemia can be acute and return to normal shortly after an excessive meal or the use of certain medications. However, it can become chronic, as in the case of diabetes.
Is it contagious?
Hyperglycemia is not contagious.
Can it occur more than once?
It is possible to have multiple episodes of hyperglycemia throughout life, for different reasons.