Health Local 2025-11-20T16:21:16+00:00

Symptoms of High Blood Sugar

Learn about the key symptoms of high blood sugar, including extreme thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and skin issues, and why it's important to see a doctor promptly.


Symptoms of High Blood Sugar

Many silent symptoms of high blood sugar can develop gradually into more serious complications if left untreated, such as diabetes, damage to blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and heart, according to the 'Very Well Health' website. High blood sugar causes extreme thirst. The kidneys play a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels by filtering and reabsorbing it. When sugar levels rise, the kidneys work harder to expel the excess, pulling fluids from body tissues to flush out sugar. This leads to dehydration, a persistent feeling of thirst despite drinking plenty of water, and frequent urination, especially at night. Excessive hunger can also be a sign of high blood sugar because excess sugar means the body cannot use it for energy, leaving cells without adequate nutrition and triggering a feeling of hunger. High blood sugar pulls fluid from body tissues, including the eye's lens, affecting the ability to focus and causing blurred vision. Normally, cells absorb sugar for energy, but when there is too much, cells cannot get enough energy, causing constant fatigue or lethargy. The body becomes more susceptible to infections when blood sugar is high, as it impairs the immune system's efficiency. High blood sugar causes skin symptoms like dryness, itching, and slow wound healing. Acanthosis nigricans, a thick, velvety patch in skin folds, is also a sign of insulin resistance. Researchers have noted that high blood sugar affects mood. High blood sugar, especially after meals in people with type 2 diabetes, is linked to negative mood symptoms like irritability. Other studies have linked high sugar levels to increased feelings of anger and sadness. If these symptoms accumulate or recur, it is advisable to see a doctor to check blood sugar levels and receive appropriate treatment.