7 Alarming Signs Your Blood Sugar May Be Too High
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) happens when there is too much glucose circulating in the blood. It is common in people with diabetes, but it can also occur in people who have not yet been diagnosed.
These signs do not confirm high blood sugar by themselves, but if they are persistent or occur together, they should be checked by a healthcare professional.
1. Increased thirst
When blood sugar is high, the kidneys may try to remove excess glucose through urine, which can lead to:
- Strong thirst
- Dry mouth
- Drinking much more than usual
2. Frequent urination
High blood sugar can cause:
- More frequent trips to the bathroom
- Waking up at night to urinate
3. Unusual tiredness
When glucose cannot enter cells properly for energy, some people experience:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Low energy
4. Blurred vision
High glucose levels can affect fluid balance in the eye and temporarily change vision.
5. Increased hunger
Some people feel hungry even after eating because the body is not using glucose effectively for energy.
6. Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections
Persistently high blood sugar can affect:
- Wound healing
- The body’s ability to fight certain infections
7. Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
Over time, high blood sugar can damage nerves, causing:
- Pins-and-needles sensations
- Burning feelings
- Reduced sensation
Seek urgent medical help if high blood sugar is accompanied by:
- Vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Confusion
- Trouble breathing
- Extreme weakness
- A fruity smell on the breath
These can be signs of a serious condition requiring prompt treatment.
How to check your blood sugar
The only way to know your blood sugar level is through testing, such as:
- A blood glucose test
- HbA1c test (average blood sugar over several months)
If you are experiencing symptoms, especially with risk factors such as being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of gestational diabetes, it is worth discussing testing with a healthcare professional.
