Coping/Complications

 Short-Term

 Long-Term

There may be times when your blood glucose level rises above normal and stays there. This condition, hyperglycemia, can occur gradually and without symptoms, or it can occur rapidly. Usually, you will be able to lower your own blood glucose. There are times, however, when emergency care is needed.

Causes of Hyperglycemia

• Too little insulin or oral medication.
  
• Too much food.
  
• Less activity or exercise than usual.
  
• More stress than usual.
  
• Infection, illness or injury.

Symptoms of Hyperglycemia

• Fatigue
  
• Dry mouth and skin
  
• Increased thirst
  
• Increased hunger
  
• Blurry vision
  
• Unexplained weight loss
  
• Increased urination

How to Treat Hyperglycemia

• Check blood glucose more frequently than usual and record the results. These records will help you and your diabetes team find patterns and adjust your treatment to avoid hyperglycemia.
  
• Check for urine ketones (essential if you have Type 1) and call your doctor is ketones are present.
  
• Take your insulin or oral agent as prescribed. (Adjust dosage only if told to do so by your doctor.)
  
• Follow your meal plan, adding more calorie-free fluids.
  
• Follow your exercise plan only if ketones are absent.
  
• Follow sick day guidelines in Sick Days section.
  

Reprinted with permission from: InfoDek® © Copyright 2002