High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, can develop gradually and may go unnoticed until serious complications arise. Recognizing the early signs can help you take action to manage your blood sugar and protect your health.

Signs to Watch For

Frequent Urination – High glucose levels cause your kidneys to work harder, leading to more trips to the bathroom.

Increased Thirst – Excess urination can dehydrate you, making you feel unusually thirsty.

Unexplained Fatigue – When cells can’t absorb glucose properly, your body lacks energy, leaving you tired.

Blurred Vision – High sugar levels can affect the shape of your eye lenses, causing temporary vision changes.

Headaches – Fluctuating glucose levels can trigger frequent headaches.

Unexplained Weight Loss – When your body can’t use glucose for energy, it may break down fat and muscle instead.

Slow-Healing Wounds – High blood sugar impairs circulation and immune response, slowing the healing process.

Frequent Infections – Yeast infections or urinary tract infections can occur more often due to elevated glucose levels.

Tingling or Numbness – High sugar can damage nerves, especially in hands and feet, causing tingling sensations.

Mood Changes – Irritability, anxiety, or difficulty concentrating can be early signs of high blood sugar.

When to See a Doctor