WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is diabetic hyperglycemia? Diabetic hyperglycemia is a blood glucose (sugar) level that is higher than your healthcare provider recommends. You may not have any signs and symptoms. You may have increased thirst and urinate more often than usual. What increases my risk for diabetic hyperglycemia? - You do not follow your meal plan.
- You exercise less than usual.
- You do not take your insulin or diabetes medicine as directed.
- You have an illness, such as a cold, the flu, or pneumonia.
- You have an increased amount of emotional stress.
Why is it important to manage diabetic hyperglycemia? Over time, uncontrolled diabetes can damage your nerves, blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Damage to arteries may increase your risk for heart attack and stroke. Nerve damage may also lead to other heart, stomach, and nerve problems. If diabetic hyperglycemia is not controlled, it can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS). These are serious conditions that can become life-threatening. How do I manage diabetic hyperglycemia? - If you take diabetes medicine or insulin, take it as directed. Missed or wrong doses can cause your blood sugar to go up.
- Tell your healthcare provider if you continue to have trouble managing your blood sugar. He may change the type, amount, or timing of your diabetes medicine or insulin. If you do not take diabetes medicine or insulin, you may need to start.
- Work with your healthcare provider to develop a sick day plan. Illness can cause your blood sugar to rise. A sick day plan helps you control your blood sugar level when you are sick.
How do I prevent diabetic hyperglycemia? - Check your blood sugar levels regularly. Ask your healthcare provider how often to check your blood sugar and what your levels should be.
- Follow your meal plan. Your blood sugar can go up if you eat a large meal or you eat more carbohydrates than recommended. Work with a dietitian to develop a meal plan that is right for you.
- Exercise regularly to help lower your blood sugar when it is high. It can also keep your blood sugar levels steady over time. Exercise for at least 30 minutes, 5 days a week. Include muscle strengthening activities 2 days each week. Do not sit for longer than 90 minutes at a time. Work with your healthcare provider to create an exercise plan. Children should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.
- Check your ketones before exercise if your blood sugar level is above 240 mg/dl. Do not exercise if you have ketones in your urine, because your blood sugar level may rise even more. Ask your healthcare provider how to lower your blood sugar when you have ketones.
When should I seek immediate care? - You have shortness of breath.
- Your breath smells fruity.
- You have nausea and vomiting.
- You have symptoms of dehydration, such as dark yellow urine, dry mouth and lips, and dry skin.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You continue to have higher blood sugar levels than your healthcare provider recommends.
- Your blood sugar level is over 240 mg/dl and you have ketones in your urine.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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