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Hyperglycemia

Definition of hyperglycemia#

Hyperglycemia is blood glucose levels above 100-126 mg/dL.

Causes of hyperglycemia#

Hyperglycemia usually results from poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, or after administration of certain medications, such as glucocorticosteroids.

Signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia#

Signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) usually have a slow onset after significant elevated plasma glucose levels (usually>180-200 mg/dl or 10-11.1 mmol/L) over a prolonged time period.

  • Anorexia
  • Polyurea (frequent urination)
  • Polydipsia (frequent thirst)
  • Fatigue
  • Blurry vision
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Acetone breath
  • Dry, flushed skin
  • Dry mouth
  • Abdominal pain
  • Coma

Risk factors#

Poor metabolic control due to:#

  • not enough insulin or oral diabetes medications
  • poor diet
  • having in illness, an infection or other condition causing bodily stress
  • using medications, such as glucocorticosteroids, that cause increased blood glucose

Related Pages#

References/Websites#