High blood sugar, medically referred to as hyperglycemia, is a condition commonly associated with diabetes and occurs when blood glucose levels rise above normal thresholds. According to the World Health Organization, hyperglycemia is diagnosed when fasting blood sugar exceeds 7.0 mmol/L (126 mg/dL) or rises above 11.0 mmol/L (200 mg/dL) two hours after eating.
This condition typically arises in individuals with diabetes due to either the destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas or the body’s resistance to insulin, which prevents glucose from entering cells to be used as energy. Identifying the early symptoms of high blood sugar is crucial for managing the condition and avoiding serious health complications. One of the earliest and most noticeable signs is constant thirst. When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys struggle to absorb the excess glucose. To eliminate it, the body increases urination, which in turn draws more fluids from body tissues and leads to dehydration.
This cycle of fluid loss prompts persistent thirst as the body tries to replenish lost water. Another common early symptom is increased appetite. Despite eating enough, individuals with high blood sugar often feel excessively hungry. This is because the glucose in their bloodstream is not entering the cells properly to provide energy. As a result, the brain mistakenly believes the body is starving and signals the need for more food, leading to frequent and sometimes intense hunger. Skin changes can also occur with high blood sugar, including the development of small, yellowish bumps known as eruptive xanthomatosis. These bumps are usually linked to high triglyceride levels in the blood, which tend to rise in those with poorly managed glucose. They commonly appear on the arms, legs, or buttocks and may be itchy or tender.
Chronic fatigue is another red flag that should not be ignored. Since glucose is the main source of energy for the body’s cells, and it cannot be properly utilized when insulin function is impaired, cells are left without the fuel they need. This leads to persistent tiredness, even after a good night’s sleep or periods of rest, and can significantly interfere with daily activities and overall quality of life. High blood sugar can also affect vision and cause frequent headaches. Excess glucose can cause fluid to accumulate behind the eyes, leading to swelling and distorted vision. This fluid imbalance can make it difficult to focus and may also increase pressure in the head, which can trigger headaches.
These symptoms may be subtle at first but can worsen if blood sugar remains uncontrolled. A particularly concerning symptom of prolonged high blood sugar is tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. This happens when elevated glucose levels begin to damage nerve endings, especially in the extremities, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. If left untreated, this nerve damage can become permanent, leading to long-term discomfort or even mobility issues. Another physical clue that may point to high blood sugar is the appearance of skin tags—small, soft, benign growths that most often appear in areas where the skin folds, such as the neck, underarms, groin, or around the eyelids. While skin tags are common and generally harmless, their sudden or increased presence can be a sign of insulin resistance or elevated blood glucose levels. Recognizing these early signs of high blood sugar is vital, especially for those at risk of developing diabetes. Prompt action—such as seeking medical advice, making dietary changes, staying physically active, and monitoring blood sugar regularly—can make a significant difference in managing the condition effectively and preventing more serious complications in the future. Early detection and lifestyle adjustments are key to maintaining long-term health and reducing the impact of high blood sugar on the body.
