14 symptoms that indicate dangerously high blood sugar levels

 very high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) is a serious medical condition, especially for people with diabetes or prediabetes. Recognizing these symptoms early can prevent emergencies like Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA – Type 1) or Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS – Type 2).

Here are 14 symptoms that indicate dangerously high blood sugar levels, categorized for clarity.

Early & Common Warning Signs

1. Extreme Thirst (Polydipsia): You can’t quench your thirst, no matter how much you drink. High sugar in your blood pulls fluid from your tissues.

2. Frequent Urination (Polyuria): The body tries to flush out excess glucose through urine, leading to constant trips to the bathroom, especially at night.

3. Intense Hunger (Polyphagia): Despite eating, your cells aren’t getting glucose for energy, so your body signals for more food.

4. Blurred Vision: High sugar causes the lens of your eye to swell, changing its shape and ability to focus.

5. Fatigue & Weakness: Since glucose can’t enter cells efficiently, your body lacks fuel, leaving you feeling profoundly tired and weak.

6. Headaches: A common early sign due to dehydration and changes in blood vessel function.

Symptoms of Worsening or Prolonged High Blood Sugar

7. Unexplained Weight Loss: Despite eating more, you lose weight. Without insulin, the body starts burning fat and muscle for energy.

8. Dry Mouth & Itchy Skin: Caused by significant dehydration from fluid loss.

9. Difficulty Concentrating (“Brain Fog”): The brain is highly sensitive to high glucose and dehydration, leading to confusion and poor focus.

10. Slow-Healing Cuts & Sores: High blood sugar impairs circulation and the immune system’s ability to repair wounds.

11. Frequent Infections (e.g., yeast infections, UTIs, skin infections): Sugar-rich tissues and fluids become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

12. Nausea or Vomiting: A sign that the body may be starting to break down fat for fuel, leading to a dangerous acid buildup (ketoacidosis).

Dangerous Symptoms Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

13. Fruity-Smelling Breath: This is a classic sign of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), where the body produces toxic acids (ketones). It smells like nail polish remover or rotten fruit. THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

14. Shortness of Breath, Confusion, or Extreme Drowsiness: These indicate severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or ketoacidosis. The person may become disoriented or lethargic.

What to Do If You Experience These Symptoms

1. If you have diabetes and monitor your blood sugar:

   • Check your glucose level immediately.

   • Follow your doctor’s “sick day” plan, which may involve adjusting insulin.

   • Check for ketones if your blood sugar is persistently high (over 240 mg/dL or 13.3 mmol/L) using urine strips or a blood ketone meter.

   • Seek emergency care if you have symptoms of DKA (fruity breath, vomiting, confusion) or if blood sugar is very high and not responding to medication.

2. If you are undiagnosed:

   • See a doctor as soon as possible. Explain your symptoms.

   • Request simple tests: Fasting Blood Sugar and Hemoglobin A1c.

   • Do not ignore these signs. Early diagnosis of diabetes or prediabetes is critical to prevent severe complications (nerve, kidney, eye, heart damage).

Visual Summary: The Progression of High Blood Sugar Symptoms

Early Signs (Manage at Home) → Worsening Signs (Call Doctor) → Emergency Signs (Go to Hospital)
     Thirst & Peeing           Weight Loss & Fatigue          Fruity Breath & Confusion
     Hunger & Blurry Vision    Slow Healing & Infections      Vomiting & Shortness of Breath

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you or someone you know is experiencing severe symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately.