Signs of high sugar in the body of a woman. What High Blood Sugar Means: Symptoms, Causes, Health Dangers, and Possible Treatments

IN modern world several types of diseases have a steady growth, among them are endocrine diseases and, above all, diabetes mellitus. In terms of the number of cases, it lags behind only oncology and cardiovascular diseases.

Doctors constantly remind that the disease needs to be known in person and it is better to prevent its occurrence. But if a person falls into a risk group, then you need to monitor your condition and know the first signs of an increase in blood sugar. In women, hyperglycemia requires an individual approach to therapy.

What is glucose and its norms

In the pursuit of health, many try to eliminate salt, sugar and sugar from their diet. pure form and all foods containing glucose. But such a rigid principle of denying the necessary products or substances leads to other diseases and complications. People who have a hereditary tendency to diabetes need to carefully compose a menu, however, in clear rules for eating behavior, eating useful products Although limited, it is not completely excluded.

To begin with, we will determine the indicators of the level of glucose in the bloodstream, based on medical standards:

• Normal indicators of a healthy person are from 3.3 mmol / l to 5.5 mmol / l.
• Pre-diabetic state - from 5.5 mmol / l to 6 mmol / l.
• The diagnosis of "diabetes" is made at rates above 6.1 mmol / l.

Why does the body need sugar?

Glucose is a substance that provides energy to cells and tissues throughout the body. In addition, the presence of the required amount of sugar in the blood, in combination with other participants, ensures the flow of such vital processes:

• Synthesis of nucleic acids, lipids, amino acids.
• Support for the work of the heart and blood vessels.
• Starting the production of a normal level of enzymes.
• Balance and normal functioning of the central nervous system.
• Promotes a feeling of satiety.

The process of glucose formation has several stages. Products enter the stomach, where the process of splitting carbohydrates into saccharides, which includes glucose, takes place. Further, through the walls of the stomach, glucose is absorbed into the blood and transported to cells and tissues. Mobility and the ability to penetrate into the cells of glucose provides the hormone insulin, the pancreas is responsible for its production.

Physiological enhancement

The first signs of an increase in blood sugar in women appear quite late, when the process is already running and even has some complications. The causes that provoke hyperglycemia are divided into two groups - physiological and pathological.

The first group includes temporary factors, after the elimination of which the sugar level returns to normal levels, for example:

• Stress, prolonged emotional overstrain.
• Pregnancy.
• Eating simple carbohydrates.
• Pain syndrome (causes the release of adrenaline and thyroxine hormones).
• Severe blood loss, lack of blood rutin, vitamins of group B.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning, active sports.

Naturally, the physiological signs of increased blood sugar in women after eating disappear. After a set time after eating, the glucose level in a healthy person stabilizes. Subject to the rules of a balanced diet, the absence of overeating, there are no threats to the female body.

Medicines and sugar

Also, temporary hyperglycemia causes the intake of certain groups of medications:

• Estrogens, beta-blockers, phenothiazines.
• Glucocorticosteroids (based on prednisolone).
• oral contraceptives.

If upon admission medicines there are signs of an increase in blood sugar in women, then the doctor is notified about this. Based on the test results, the specialist adjusts the drug regimen, dosage, or makes a full replacement for another medicine.

Pathological causes

Pathological hyperglycemia occurs when the following diseases and states:

• Cirrhosis of the liver, infectious hepatitis.
• Diabetes mellitus, pancreatitis.
• Neuro endocrine diseases- polycystic ovaries, obesity, Cushing's disease, etc.
• Violations in the work of the adrenal glands.
• Neoplasms of the pancreas.
• Complications after a stroke, heart attack, injuries of various kinds.
• Neoplasms that cause distortion of the hormonal background (glucagonomas, pheochromocytomas).

If hyperglycemia is suspected, a visit to the doctor is necessary, and this should be done in as soon as possible. Postponing the problem is fraught with fatal consequences, often incurable complications, manifested in the form of loss of vision, disability, etc. The specialist will definitely prescribe the necessary laboratory research, instrumental diagnostics, will take a complete history to find out what causes high blood sugar. In women, by medical statistics are much more likely to get endocrine diseases than men.

General symptoms

Against the background of constant warnings about the high probability of diseases endocrine system not everyone knows what are the signs of high blood sugar in women. But before we consider them, let's define what are the common symptoms of high glucose levels.

There are a number of body signals that indicate health problems associated with increased glucose in the bloodstream:

• Feeling of unquenchable thirst. The patient can drink up to 5 liters of water per day, but at the same time feel dry mouth. This is because glucose attracts water molecules and removes them from the body.
• Frequent urination(polyuria). Glucose, together with water, is excreted from the body through the kidneys, the water-salt balance is disturbed, and the renal system suffers. Dizziness may occur.
• Fatigue, weakness. Glucose is a source of energy for the body. With pathologies of the pancreas and the inability of the organ to reproduce insulin, which delivers glucose to the tissues, the cells do not receive the necessary charge for activity and experience constant hunger.
• Weight gain/loss(depending on the type of damage to the pancreas).
• slow healing small scratches, inflammation of wounds, cuts. As a result, suppuration may occur, in severe cases leading to amputation.
• Skin diseases, infections urinary organs accompanied by constant itching. Furunculosis, colpitis, etc. may occur.
• The body takes on the smell of acetone. As a rule, this happens with very high blood sugar levels. This is a formidable sign indicating the approach of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Women's specificity

The level of glucose in the blood, significantly exceeding the norm, gradually destroys the internal organs and tissues. Suffering the immune system, any viral or bacterial infection is fraught with severe course, slow recovery and complications. Health status must be monitored to avoid chronic diseases. General symptoms of hyperglycemia are observed, including in women, but there are also special signs.

What are the first signs of high blood sugar in women? They are the following:

• Violation of the menstrual cycle, which occurs due to disruptions in the hormonal background.
• vaginal infections, fungal infections urinary system. The diseases that have arisen are very difficult to treat, since an ideal environment has been created for their development.
• Hair loss, change in their structure, loss of strength and shine. This sad symptom is due to a metabolic disorder.
• Fungal infections of the nails lower limbs. With increased blood sugar, the blood supply to the capillary system worsens, legs and hands often remain cold. Violation of blood circulation leads to a decrease in the body's resistance to infections, including fungal infections.
• If the glucose indicators crossed the mark of 6 units, then the woman may begin to experience constant hunger, which indicates the threat of type 2 diabetes.
• A sharp drop in visual acuity, the appearance of spots before the eyes.
• Seizures. The symptom indicates a violation of the electrolyte balance and a deterioration in blood supply.

Age features

There are age indicators of the norm of glucose in the blood. Having stepped over the 40-year milestone, you need to control blood sugar for permanent basis, and this is due to the extinction of the body's functions to produce a sufficient amount of hormones. For women and men who have overcome the age of 60, the glucose level ranges from 4.6 to 6.4 mmol / l. Elevated rates are not a pre-diabetic condition, but are associated solely with the extinction of the immune system and a decrease in hormone levels.

The causes and signs of high blood sugar in women over 60 are no different from those at other ages. Treatment is complicated by a slowdown in the body's response to medications Therefore, prevention is of the utmost importance. eating behavior and physical activity. Experts recommend purchasing a special tester for home control of sugar levels.

Special position

Expecting a child is accompanied by a woman's vigilant attitude towards her health, which means that tests are carried out regularly. A gynecologist, among other indicators, necessarily monitors the level of glucose in the blood. If it is elevated, especially after a control test, then the specialist concludes that the patient has gestational diabetes.

In the vast majority of cases, this diagnosis is removed after childbirth, but it affects the process of bearing the fetus and is a threat to its health. In particular, the child may develop intrauterine hypoxia - oxygen starvation. Today doctors have access to various methods reduce risks in the development of the baby and normalize glucose levels throughout all trimesters. Signs of high blood sugar in women during pregnancy are standard, but the problem is that it is necessary to stabilize the condition of two people.

Gestational diabetes is a rare occurrence. According to medical data, 3-10% of expectant mothers face it. What causes blood sugar to rise in women during pregnancy:

• Hormonal changes caused by polycystic ovaries.
• Obesity 3 or 4 degrees.
• Manifestation of gestational diabetes in previous pregnancies.
• Heredity.

Also, this type of hyperglycemia occurs in connection with the individual reaction of hormones to the pregnancy of a particular woman.

How to normalize sugar

Having found out what are the signs of increased blood sugar in women and finding at least one of the symptoms, you need to go through medical checkup, make a diagnosis, laboratory tests and consult a doctor. For pregnant women, this step is especially necessary. What does a specialist usually recommend to normalize blood glucose:

• Balance the diet, but do not limit the number of calories.
• Organize fractional meals, the size of portions should correspond to the size of a clenched fist.
• Eliminate simple carbohydrates (sugar, sweets, cakes, etc.) from the diet.
• Complex carbohydrates should be 50% of the generally accepted norm, the rest is compensated for by fats and proteins.
• Go in for sports, take long walks away from roads, factories, etc.
• Take medications only as prescribed by your doctor.

How to overcome hyperglycemia

Requires medical attention pathological signs increased blood sugar in women. Treatment is necessary for borderline conditions, when the indicators approach the figures characterizing the pre-diabetic state or diabetes. In this case, a visit to the doctor, a thorough diagnosis, strict adherence to the recommendations of a specialist and a diet are required.

Nutrition principles:

• Frequent small meals (up to 6 times a day).
• Balanced menu with lots of fiber.
• The amount of liquid should not exceed 2 liters per day.
• One meal is made up exclusively of vegetables.
• The amount of salt is limited (individual quantitative recommendations).
• Mandatory refusal of alcoholic beverages, stimulants.

Products with reduced content simple carbohydrates and low calorie should be the basis of the diet. Recommended for use:

• Lean meats and fish.
• Dairy products.
• Whole grains - oatmeal, buckwheat, wheat, barley, etc.
• Rye or whole grain bread, preferably unleavened.
• No more than 2 chicken eggs per day.
• Legumes - peas, lentils, chickpeas, beans, peas, etc.
• Vegetable crops - radishes, radishes, all types of cabbage and salads, red peppers, baked eggplant, spinach, leafy greens, tomatoes, etc.
• Fruits and berries - quince, lemons, apples, pears, cranberries, lingonberries, blueberries, etc.

The diet should contain vegetable fats. It is necessary to give up sugar, giving preference to sweeteners or a couple of tablespoons of honey per day. Method of cooking - baking, boiling, stewing, steaming.

The following products are subject to exclusion from the diet:

• Flour, confectionery, rich products, pastries.
• Fatty varieties of fish and meat, bacon, canned food, smoked products.
• Dairy and some sour-milk products - fatty cheeses, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream.
• It is necessary to completely abandon industrial and homemade mayonnaise.
• Fruits and dried fruits - raisins, dates, grapes, figs, bananas, etc.

Prevention

Wanting to stay healthy long years, you should know the signs of high blood sugar in women and how to avoid them. The basis of prevention is physical activity - running, fitness classes, swimming pool, yoga, Gym or any other activity that will help avoid hypodynamia, increase metabolism and normalize hormonal levels.

Maintaining a stable schedule of work and rest plays an important role in maintaining health. Each person needs to get enough sleep, not get into a state of stress and give up bad habits - smoking, drinking alcohol in large quantities. No less important is a positive attitude and the ability to experience joy, pleasure from life.

The third pillar of prevention is considered balanced diet. It is worth streamlining the hours of eating and strictly adhere to the schedule during the day. One of important conditions is the complete exclusion of snacking on harmful foods and products (chips, carbonated drinks, salted nuts, etc.). They will be replaced by fruits and dried fruits, nuts, vegetables, etc.

elevated sugar in the blood (hyperglycemia) is a pathological condition characterized by a glucose level of more than 5.5 mmol / l. The cause may be physiological changes in the body, stress, as well as a violation of carbohydrate metabolism. Clinical picture depends on the degree of hyperglycemia and general condition patient's health. At sharp rise glucose levels, it is important to provide timely assistance: delay in this case threatens the development of hyperglycemic coma.

Causes

An increase in blood sugar can be caused by various factors. Many people believe that a jump in glucose is observed only after eating sweets. However, glucose levels are also affected by physical activity, psycho-emotional state, the functioning of internal organs and nutrition. There are a number of provoking factors of hyperglycemia.

Most probable cause an increase in sugar levels in men is a violation of the functioning of the pancreas. As a result of pathological changes, an insufficient amount of insulin enters the bloodstream. The hormone can not cope with the transport of glucose molecules to the muscles or fat cells, which contributes to the development of hyperglycemia.

An excessive concentration of growth hormone in the body can serve as the cause of the pathology. Tall men are more prone to hyperglycemia.

Can cause an increase in sugar bad habits(smoking or alcoholism), intake medicines without prior consultation with a doctor, insufficient exercise or too hard work. Hyperglycemia in men can be caused by Cushing's syndrome, impaired functioning of the kidneys, liver, intestines, or stomach. Often a jump in sugar is observed in patients after a stroke, epileptic seizure and heart attack.

In women, the most common cause of pathology is malnutrition - the abuse of high-carbohydrate foods, sweets and flour products. An increase in sugar is observed in the premenstrual period, when taking oral contraceptives, and also during pregnancy, which is due to hormonal changes in the body.

Diabetes mellitus, organ diseases can provoke hyperglycemia digestive system(in particular, the stomach and intestines) and disruption of the functioning of internal organs.

Another reason for high blood sugar levels is anxiety. During stress, the hormones cortisol, adrenaline and norepinephrine are too actively synthesized, the process of glycogen breakdown and the synthesis of new glucose molecules by the liver is accelerated. Free radicals, which are produced during stress, increase the risk of developing hyperglycemia, destroy tissue receptors for insulin and reduce its effectiveness.

Symptoms

Signs of hyperglycemia are quite bright, and their appearance should cause alarm. The most common and surest sign is a strong thirst that cannot be quenched, despite the large intake of fluid into the body. The symptom is accompanied by dry mouth.

As a result of the high fluid content in the body, the urge to urinate becomes more frequent. This causes particular discomfort at night, which leads to sleep disturbance.

With increased sugar, arrhythmia and itching are observed skin. Man complains about fatigue, increased irritability and inability to work as usual. Despite a good appetite and sufficient food intake, the weight is actively reduced.

If at least a few symptoms appear high sugar in the blood, you should consult a doctor.

Long-healing wounds should be alerted. There is a rapid drop in vision, frequent numbness of the limbs, shortness of breath and nausea, accompanied by vomiting. A person is disturbed by frequent attacks of headache, weakness and bad smell acetone from the mouth.

Women may additionally experience severe itching in the genital area, increased fragility of nails and hair loss, the skin becomes too dry and flaky. Nephropathy often develops. In men, there is severe itching in the groin and anus, potency worsens, inflammation of the foreskin can be observed.

If at least a few signs are found, you should consult a doctor and take a blood test for sugar. This will allow timely identification pathological changes and begin full treatment.

High blood sugar in a child

Glucose levels in childhood are different. Children are prone to lower rates, therefore, hyperglycemia should be spoken of at a glucose level of more than 4.4 mmol / l in babies under one year old and more than 5.0 mmol / l at the age of 1–5 years. In children who have crossed the five-year milestone, the norm of blood sugar is 3.5-5.5 mmol / l.

If the child's glucose level has risen, a complete medical examination. First of all, the diagnosis of "diabetes mellitus" is confirmed or refuted. For a comprehensive study of the situation, glucose tolerance and the level of glycosylated hemoglobin are assessed.

The cause of high blood sugar in children can be hereditary predisposition, frequent stress, overwork, unstable psycho-emotional situation in the family or team. Improper nutrition increases the risk of developing pathology: a passion for sweets and other sweets, semi-finished products, sweet soda and fast food.

In infancy, the causes of hyperglycemia are early introduction of complementary foods, in particular cow's milk and cereals, lack of vitamin D, and drinking dirty water.

In childhood, infectious diseases - rubella and measles - can lead to an increase in sugar. Influenza is less common.

Diagnostics

To identify hyperglycemia, consultation with a therapist and endocrinologist is required. To accurately determine the presence of pathology, a blood test for glucose is performed, which is taken on an empty stomach. The day before the procedure, you need to give up increased physical activity, overeating and drinking alcohol. You should also stop taking medications after discussing this step with your doctor. In the morning before blood sampling, you should not eat or drink anything, otherwise the results will be unreliable.

In some cases, assigned additional diagnostics. This can be a blood test for sugar with a load, a study of urine and hormonal levels, ultrasound of internal organs, CT or MRI to identify the cause of the development of the pathology. A blood test from a vein for glucose levels may also be done. Such a study does not require special preparation and is carried out on an empty stomach or two hours after eating.

Deviation from the norm in the results of the analysis may indicate the development diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, diseases of the endocrine system or liver. If unsatisfactory results are obtained, a full medical examination should be performed.

Treatment

To normalize blood sugar levels, a comprehensive approach is used, which includes dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as medication. Treatment is prescribed by a doctor and carried out under his constant supervision and periodic monitoring of glucose levels.

An important component of effective therapy is diet. With increased sugar, it is recommended to eat often and in small portions. The basis of the diet should be cereals, vegetables (except potatoes), lean boiled or baked meat and fish, dairy and sour-milk products with a low percentage of fat, seafood, legumes and unsweetened fruits. In a small amount, you can use healthy sweets - marshmallows, marshmallows and honey.

Baking, milk soups with semolina and rice, meat and fish fried in butter, cheeses, pasta, cream and cottage cheese with additives should be excluded from the diet. The ban includes sweets, cookies and cakes. Do not drink sugary carbonated drinks and alcohol.

Compliance plays an important role drinking regime. With increased sugar, it is recommended to drink at least 2 liters of water per day. It is necessary to avoid stress and strong emotional experiences.

For people suffering from hyperglycemia, physical activity is recommended. Even elementary exercises help lower blood sugar levels, improve mood and normalize metabolic processes in the body. It is necessary to devote at least 20-40 minutes to physical education daily. It could be morning exercises walking tour, jogging, swimming, cycling, fitness classes and more. It is important that such training bring pleasure, cheer up and give a charge of vivacity.

As a drug therapy, tablets can be used to help reduce blood sugar. Additionally, drugs are prescribed that stimulate the pancreas, increase insulin sensitivity, etc. When diagnosing type 1 diabetes, insulin injections are prescribed. Such therapy is carried out for life.

Prevention

To prevent the rise in blood sugar will help the observance of simple rules. Limit the consumption of fast carbohydrates, give up alcohol, smoked meats and sweets, exercise regularly.

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A high concentration of glucose in the blood indicates the development of hyperglycemia in a person. The normal sugar level should be no more than 5.5 mmol / l.

With a systematic excess of this level, we can talk about a pathological condition that has its own signs and symptoms.

Causes of high blood glucose

Among common causes High blood sugar levels in humans are:

• development of diabetes;
• severe infections;
• lack of vitamin B;
• local inflammation in a specific organ;
• frequent stress;
• decreased immunity;
• uncontrolled medication (corticosteroids, Fentimidine, Rituximab, thiazide diuretics, and others);
• violation of the diet (eating high-calorie foods);
• inactive lifestyle.

In some cases, there is an increase in glucose concentration against the background autoimmune diseases. With them, the human body begins to attack its own cells, perceiving them as foreign. All this provokes hyperglycemia.

Often a person has short-term hyperglycemia after eating a meal. This phenomenon is not a threat and is not associated with the development of diabetes.

Among the possible reasons for the increase in sugar are additionally distinguished:

• dysfunction of the pancreas;
• hereditary diseases;
• binge eating;
• bad habits (alcohol, smoking).

Hyperglycemia is especially susceptible to obese people - they are at risk of developing diabetes.

In adults

In adults, hyperglycemia occurs for the above reasons. But the factors affecting the increase in blood glucose levels are often specific and depend on the person's gender.

Hyperglycemia in women, in addition to common causes, can occur against the background of:

• premenstrual syndrome;
• problems with the endocrine system.

In men, as in women, elevated sugar may be associated with the development benign tumor called pheochromocytoma. It often develops in people aged 20-40 years and affects the cells of the adrenal glands.

The disease is characterized by excessive secretion of adrenaline and norepinephrine. In 10% of cases, the tumor is malignant. With pheochromocytoma, there are many symptoms, one of which is an increase in plasma glucose levels.

Among other causes, hyperglycemia is common in adults with:

• diseases thyroid gland and the pituitary
• cancerous tumors;
• hepatitis;
• cirrhosis;
• kidney diseases.

An increase in sugar often occurs in adults who have experienced a stroke or myocardial infarction.

An increase in the concentration of glucose in the blood is often observed in athletes. It's connected with physical activity, taking stimulants, diuretics, hormones.

During pregnancy

Women in position often experience an increase in blood sugar levels.

The reasons for this phenomenon may be:

• hormonal changes in the body;
• development of gestational diabetes.

In the first case, there is no serious risk for both the mother and her child. Hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy are normal physiological phenomenon. In the absence of pathologies, hyperglycemia is temporary, and glucose levels subsequently normalize.

A great danger to the health of the pregnant woman and the fetus is hyperglycemia, which has developed against the background of a special type of diabetes - progestogen. This is a specific form of the disease that occurs in pregnant women and often disappears after childbirth.

Progestational diabetes occurs due to the excessive activity of the female ovaries, which during pregnancy produce in female body a large amount of the hormone gestagen. This hormone inhibits the action of insulin and causes high blood sugar.

The disease affects about 5% of pregnant women. When her signs appear, the expectant mother needs constant monitoring and complex treatment. In the absence of therapy, there is a high risk of losing a child.

Video material about the gestational form of diabetes:

In newborns and children

In newborns, the causes of hyperglycemia differ from the factors that provoke this phenomenon in adults and older children.

The causes of high sugar in newborns are as follows:

• due to intravenous administration of glucose into the body of a newborn with low birth weight;
• a small amount of a hormone in the body of a newborn (especially if he is premature), which breaks down proinsulin;
• low resistance of the body to insulin itself.

Many newborns are highly susceptible to transient (transient) form of hyperglycemia. Often it occurs due to the introduction of glucocorticosteroids into their body.

Transient hyperglycemia can also occur for other reasons:

• due to infection of the blood by a fungus;
• due to lack of oxygen in the body;
• due to distress syndrome.

Hyperglycemia in children and adolescents occurs mainly for the same reasons as in adults.

Children at risk include:

• eating improperly and inadequately;
• experiencing severe stress;
• exposed to infections and inflammations against the background of excessive production of contra-insulin hormones in the process of body growth.

Adolescents, for the reasons mentioned above, are more likely to develop the "young" form of the disease - type 1 diabetes.

Main features

Increased sugar in the human body makes itself felt by numerous symptoms:

• constant thirst;
• arrhythmia;
• slow wound healing;
• sudden weight loss or gain;
• constant fatigue;
• visual impairment;
• periodic occurrence of spasms in the muscles;
• respiratory failure (noise occurs, it becomes deep);
• dry skin;
• frequent urge to urinate;
• decreased immunity;
• dry mucous membranes;
• drowsiness;
• increased blood pressure;
• headaches, dizziness;
• irregular appetite;
• the appearance of a fungus;
• sweating.

In men, hyperglycemia can be indicated by a weak erection and decreased libido. These symptoms do not always indicate the development of hyperglycemia in a person. Symptoms are extensive and may indicate the development of various diseases in humans. To find out the cause, the patient needs a diagnosis.

Diagnostic methods

If a patient suspects the development of a pathology, a standard set of diagnostic procedures is performed.

These include:

• blood donation for analysis;
• carrying out a blood test by the loading method;
• study of plasma by the refinement method.

The patient will not be able to independently identify a pathology in himself if he has high sugar in a weak form. Using a glucometer will not provide reliable information.

The most accurate data allows you to get a blood test performed on an empty stomach. In professional medicine, it is called the orthotoluidine method. The analysis allows you to determine the level of sugar and compare it with the established norm of the indicator.

The analysis is given according to the rules:

• only in the morning;
• only on an empty stomach;
• with the obligatory refusal of loads and medications.

If the study reveals deviations from the patient's normal glucose, then the specialist prescribes additional research in the form of loading and refining methods.

Each of these methods has its own characteristics.

Table of characteristics of diagnostic methods:

Load method	Refinement (reducing) method
Implies blood donation in the morning and on an empty stomach After donating blood, a glucose solution is injected into the body After a few hours, another plasma sampling is performed The second sampling allows you to make a diagnosis of "hyperglycemia" if the patient has a high glucose level - 11 mmol / l.	Conducted at the day hospital Examines the blood for the presence of ergonine in it, uric acid, creatinine When these substances are detected, in addition to determining the level of sugar in the blood, the specialist receives information about the associated health problems in the patient The method is used when there is a suspicion of the development of human kidney disease

These diagnostic methods make it possible to detect hyperglycemia in a patient, which is often just one of the symptoms of a more serious disease. Elevated sugar often leads to complications in the form of ketoacidosis. If left untreated, hyperglycemia is fraught with coma and death for the patient.

Periodic or constant increase in blood sugar, which is a sign of its insufficient absorption by tissues or insulin deficiency, negatively affects the functioning of internal organs, blood vessels and nerve fibers.

Until a certain time, elevated blood sugar does not appear specific symptoms, although irreversible destructive processes can already begin in the body in the most vulnerable organs - the heart, blood vessels, visual organs. Controlling the level of sugar and preventing it from rising to dangerous levels is the most affordable measure for the prevention of diabetes.

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Classmates

Sometimes an impending disease is nevertheless “declassified”, and when blood sugar is elevated, it signals with quite distinguishable symptoms (signs). These manifestations are almost the same in representatives of opposite sexes.

It is believed that diabetes mellitus is more dangerous for its consequences for women than for men, since the former lose their sight faster, lose their emotional balance, and turn into “hysterical persons”. They are much more likely to have complications from the genitourinary system. Strong thirst (polydipsia), increased appetite against the background of rapid weight loss, increased diuresis, dry mucous membranes - these are the symptoms that a woman has with high sugar.

The first sign of high blood sugar in men is usually an increase in urine output (polyuria). The consequence of frequent urination is the gradual dehydration of the body, which entails irresistible thirst. This is the most characteristics high blood sugar, which are symptoms in men. In addition, obesity or, conversely, weight loss, irritability or lethargy, prolonged suppuration of wounds and increased fatigue can be observed.

The main symptoms of diabetes

Signs of a spike

With a sudden and sharp increase in blood sugar, usually occurring as an initial symptom of type 1 diabetes, the patient's condition is life-threatening. It is accompanied by:

• sudden onset of fatigue;
• increased heart rate;
• drop in blood pressure;
• often - epigastric pain;
• blurred vision;
• dry skin, tongue and mucous membranes;
• the smell of acetone from the oral cavity;
• skin itching;
• drowsiness, inhibition of reflexes, fainting.

Both the sick person and the people around him should know what to do in circumstances where sugar is elevated, especially if it happened abruptly.

What does it rise from?

Elevated significantly higher, manifested by characteristic symptoms, is called hyperglycemia. To understand how to treat this condition, it is necessary to find the cause of hyperglycemia. Not always high sugar levels indicate the onset of diabetes, but this factor is at the top of the list of reasons for the increase in this indicator. Other factors that increase blood sugar include:

• beriberi with a deficiency of biotin, vitamin B7;
• malnutrition, gluttony (often with bulimia nervosa, manifested by an uncontrollable passion for saturation);
• drug therapy with corticosteroids, protease inhibitors, phentamidine, niacin, thiazide diuretics, beta-blockers, some antidepressants, anticancer drugs from the group of monoclonal bodies;
• non-diabetic hyperglycemia on the background of stress after a stroke or myocardial infarction;
• inflammatory, infectious or organ diseases, accompanied by a decrease in insulin resistance of tissues (atherosclerosis, hypertension, coronary artery disease, etc.);
• chronic insufficiency of the adrenal cortex.

It is possible to determine exactly why sugar is rising only by careful differential diagnosis, history taking and testing.

What does a high level mean and why is it dangerous?

Let's take a closer look at the issue of high blood sugar. As noted above, when this indicator becomes sharply increased, this means that hyperglycemia has developed and the question arises of how to treat it.

Normally, 2 groups of hormones are involved in the regulation of blood sugar:

• insulin is the only hormone that has hypoglycemic (sugar-lowering) properties;
• hyperglycemic (increasing sugar) - growth and adrenal hormones (glucocorticosteroids), glucagon.

Insulin, to a greater or lesser extent, affects all links metabolic processes in the body, the first of which for him is carbohydrate. This process provides the body with energy for all other functions - blood circulation, respiration, movement, etc. The activation of insulin production by the endocrine cells of the pancreas occurs when the sugar content rises, from which the tissues acquire the ability to absorb this carbohydrate.

Mechanism of action of insulin

What are the levels considered high? To answer this question, let's recall the normal ranges: 3.5–5.5. Indicators above upper bound range of reference values ​​are considered elevated.

Most patients understand that if blood sugar is high, something needs to be done to stabilize it, but few realize how dangerous it is. increased rate. Sustained elevated plasma sugar potentiates the violation of all types of metabolism:

• protein;
• fatty;
• carbohydrate;
• water-salt and mineral.

By purchasing chronic course, hyperglycemia progresses to diabetes mellitus, which threatens with such multiple organ disorders as:

• diabetic angiopathy, including increased fragility and permeability of blood vessels, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, coronary disease, encephalopathy;
• diabetic foot syndrome - trophic ulcers, pain in calf muscles, destruction of the joints and bones of the feet due to circulatory disorders in the lower extremities;
• nephropathy - damage to the vessels of the kidneys, with a violation of their functions up to insufficiency (observed in 40-45% of patients after 15-20 years from the diagnosis);
• retinopathy - damage to the vessels of the eyes, destruction of the retina and its detachment, leading to loss of vision, is found in 80-95% of patients
• polyneuropathy - damage to peripheral nerve endings, leading to impaired sensitivity, chilliness and swelling of the extremities, paresthesia (sensation of "crawling", tingling or burning on the skin), occurs in 75% of patients.

Of all these most unpleasant consequences diabetes mellitus, a pathological condition called "diabetic foot" is distinguished. As a result of progressive damage to the vessels of the extremities and the formation trophic ulcers patients develop infection of soft tissues and purulent-necrotic processes (gangrene), in severe cases leading to limb amputation.

Loss of limbs, loss of vision, kidney failure- The list of consequences of diabetes is frightening, but it does not end there.

With a sharp increase in glucose concentration to a dangerous level, a person can fall into a hyperglycemic coma. In some cases, this ends in death. That's why at high level sugar should do everything necessary to regulate its concentration in the blood.

Interpretation of glucose content

When talking about blood glucose, it means the same as sugar content, since glucose is the end product of the breakdown of carbohydrates, serving as the most convenient source of energy for the body. To give an idea of ​​the dangerous levels of blood glucose, compare various options results of blood tests for sugar.

Owners of such a result of a blood test for sugar do not have to worry - the value of 5 mmol / l is within the reference values ​​​​and does not require correction. In units of measurement accepted in many countries of the world - milligrams per deciliter - this figure corresponds to 90 mg / dl.

Test strips for glucometer

An indicator of 6 mmol / l is also normal, but is a borderline value. This means that there is a risk of finding high blood sugar in the future. IN international units measurement indicator corresponds to 108 mg/dl. If such a value is found, in-depth blood tests may be required.

If the result for sugar is 7 mmol/l, this is increased glucose, which, as a rule, means a diabetic debut in an adult. In milligrams per deciliter, this is 126 mg/dL. Status refers to mild degree hyperglycemia. Confirmation of diabetes mellitus involves the mandatory passage of additional studies:

• blood stress test for glucose tolerance;
• for glucose and ketone bodies in the urine;
• on insulin and C-peptide in the blood.

The most complete diagnostic picture of diabetes mellitus is given by the analysis of glycated hemoglobin - the average value of sugar in the blood, determined over 3-4 months.

A value of 8 mmol/l (or 144 mg/dl) indicates moderate hyperglycemia and requires immediate action. What a person should do with such results, an endocrinologist, neurologist or therapist will explain, depending on what provoked high sugar.

What to do?

If test results show high blood sugar, this does not necessarily mean that a person needs medication. The decision to prescribe hypoglycemic agents or insulin is the prerogative of a specialist, so the first thing to do when you find characteristic symptoms and increased sugar concentration - consult a doctor. All further actions should be agreed with a medical professional.

If the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus has already been made, drug therapy is being carried out, and the sugar has nevertheless jumped, all the more so you should resort to the help of your doctor in order to avoid life-threatening situations. Such patients should adhere to the following rules before visiting a doctor:

• keep your glucose level under control;
• drink more water;
• and to a minimum
• if glucose is not higher than 14-15 mmol / l, do feasible physical activity;
• if the glucose content is above 15 mmol / l, from physical activity should refrain.

When blood sugar is very high (20-33 mmol / l), and it rises spontaneously, the first thing to do is call an ambulance.

Treatment of hyperglycemia usually consists of a range of comprehensive measures to lower blood glucose levels, improve metabolism, or eliminate the causes of high sugar:

• if he was provoked by medication, find an adequate replacement for these drugs that does not have such side effects;
• when the cause lies in somatic or other diseases, treat them;
• if overeating served as the impetus for the increase, connect the mechanisms of diet regulation ();
• to improve metabolism and normalize body weight, individually selected physiotherapy exercises are recommended.

Insulin hormone replacement therapy is prescribed only for diagnosing type 1 diabetes.

The issue of prescribing medicines should not be decided by the sick person on their own - the types of drugs, as well as their dosage, can only be selected by a doctor.

Since glucose is absorbed by the body only through a hormone (insulin), no food or food is possible. Therefore, if intensive glycemic control is necessary, one should rely solely on the postulates evidence-based medicine. To effectively control blood sugar, medicine uses a number of antidiabetic, or hypoglycemic agents:

• insulin preparations intended for intramuscular injection;
• meglitinides - active ingredients nateglinide, repaglinide;
• alpha-glucosidase inhibitors - miglitol, acarbose;
• thiazolidinediones - pioglitazone, rosiglitazone, diaglitazone, etc.;
• biguanides - metformin, buformin;
• sulfonylurea derivatives - glipizide, gliquidone, chlorpropamide, etc.

The drugs listed below insulin are for oral use in type II diabetes.

Due to a hormonal imbalance in women in position, a special kind of hyperglycemia can develop - gestational diabetes. At the same time, glycemia remains normal on an empty stomach, but rises sharply after eating. Such fluctuations in blood sugar are unsafe for prenatal development fetus, as they can be complicated by brain anomalies and of cardio-vascular system The child has. In order to detect pathology in advance, pregnant women are shown a glucose tolerance test at 24-28 weeks.

No special preparations should be made for the procedure for taking a blood sample for sugar. The analysis is taken on an empty stomach, you can’t have breakfast on the day of blood donation. A few days before the procedure - the usual diet, habitual lifestyle, and preferably - do not starve, so as not to provoke a false increase in glucose due to its compensatory production by the liver. Restrictions apply only to actions on the eve of taking blood samples:

• do not eat or drink sugary drinks 8-10 hours before donating blood;
• limit physical and emotional stress 2-3 hours before the procedure;
• on the day of the test, do not eat, you can drink, but only clean water.

Any other drinks (tea, juice) drunk before a visit to the laboratory can distort the results of the analysis.

A home meter is useful for monitoring blood sugar. Today, portable glucometers for private use are popular. These devices are equipped with a glucose oxidase biosensor capable of calculating blood glucose levels (glycemia) within seconds. There are several types of glucometers from the first to the newest generations. Complete with a measuring apparatus, as a rule, there are additional means of manipulation - scarifiers for finger puncture, semi-automatic syringe pens for dosed administration of insulin, replaceable cartridges with active substance. There are devices that measure blood sugar levels without a puncture.

Useful video

The video will talk about the need for an integrated approach to the problem of high blood sugar:

Conclusion

1. Elevated much above normal blood sugar is called hyperglycemia.
2. The causes of hyperglycemia can be disorders of carbohydrate metabolism and hormonal balance, somatic, endocrine and infectious diseases, taking certain medications, chronic overeating.
3. Treatment of hyperglycemia is a complex of measures, including drug therapy, diet and lifestyle improvement.

In contact with

If the body has high blood sugar, then the symptoms in a woman are very different. This is a fairly common disease. Scientists still do not know for sure why the disease occurs and how it can be completely cured. There are different types of ailment, respectively, and treatment options.

You need to navigate the nuances of the disease and know what to do in critical situations. Complications of diabetes mellitus in children and adults lead to very negative issues and the consequences.

The manifestation of the disease

According to statistics, the disease ranks second in the ranking of the most common in the world. Signs of diabetes:

1. Feeling of constant thirst. This is because when sugar is above normal, it begins to draw all the moisture out of the cells. Because the body requires replenishment of water reserves. Hence the constant desire to drink, which is satisfied both with plain water and other liquids.
2. Frequent urge to go to the toilet. Frequent urination is caused by thirst.
3. Rapid weight loss and lethargy is another possible signs. When the energy supply is depleted and glucose is no longer used as a source of strength, the body begins to burn its own muscles and fats. Hence the weight loss, possible dizziness and constant drowsiness.
4. Fatigue and a desire to sleep can be one of the factors that indicate the risk of the disease. It is explained by the fact that there is not enough insulin in the blood, respectively, the process of glucose transformation is inhibited, as a result, energy production becomes simply impossible.
5. Hunger or lack of appetite is one of the symptoms of diabetes. The food that the body receives is digested very quickly and is not fully absorbed. If there is no appetite at all, urgent action must be taken, as this is a rather strong threat to life.
6. Vision may fall, the work of the lens of the eye may be disturbed. It happens that there is nebula, darkening, dysfunction of the body as a whole.
7. Different fungal infections(thrush, diaper rash, etc.).

The causes of the disease can be different, but at the first manifestations, take urgent measures and consult a doctor. He will determine the type of diabetes and prescribe treatment.

Types of ailment

As mentioned above, there are several types into which the disease is divided:

1. insulin. Its main feature is the complete destruction of insulin in the blood, a person must give himself injections in order to maintain the daily norm.
2. An elevated level of insulin in the blood or normal, but both do not provide the desired effect and quality of cell function. There is no access of glucose to the cells, so there is a disruption in the functioning of the body as a whole.
3. Phosphate diabetes can appear in the second year of a baby's life. Affects kidney function and development mental health child. This hereditary disease which is almost impossible to prevent.
4. MODY diabetes is a genetic disorder. Can be detected and treated early stages using small doses of insulin.
5. There is also a gestational type of ailment - it happens in pregnant women and can pass by itself after childbirth.

Causes of the disease

Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is almost impossible in the early stages of the manifestation of the disease. Nowadays, doctors and scientists cannot give unambiguous answers why the body begins to fight with itself.

The work of the internal organs is built in such a way that the pancreas produces a sufficient amount of insulin to ensure normal functioning. Our immune system protects us from external diseases, infections and other negative factors.

But sometimes the same immune system starts to fight the pancreas and destroy all the insulin. One of the options for launching such a negative process can be a severe illness suffered by a person. infectious disease. Wrong treatment or complications may trigger the onset of diabetes.

Why is the absence of insulin in the human body so dangerous? Insulin is a hormone whose main task is to ensure that glucose from the blood enters the cells. This gives us normal physical activity, activity, energy and strength. Insulin is produced by the pancreas.

It is thanks to her that we can move and do various daily activities. Therefore, when the immune system begins to destroy insulin, glucose does not enter the bloodstream, strength is lost and the processes of the body are completely disrupted.

Prevention and treatment

Diabetes can manifest itself in different ways. If you do nothing in the treatment, this will not only adversely affect health, but can also lead to lethal outcome. Therefore, take the issue seriously and take all possible measures.

One of the main tasks is the constant control of blood sugar levels. At least 3-4 times a day, you need to measure the indicators and if something is wrong, take immediate action.

Of the main recommendations, special proper nutrition can be noted throughout the day. The attending physician will be able to help you in compiling the menu. Be sure to attend physical or sports activities and activities.

This will not allow the body to relax and improve overall health. With just 10-15 minutes a day, you can lead a normal life freely and without worries. But do not forget that you are at risk and negligence can lead to death.

There is no prevention of diabetes mellitus, since the root causes of the disease are unknown. As a preventive measure healthy person you can check blood sugar from time to time and make sure that the norm is not exceeded.

If the analysis showed an excess of permissible marks, immediately consult a doctor.

Elevated blood sugar

One of the reasons why blood sugar rises in women and men may be diabetes. But there are other diseases associated with this symptom. normal level an indicator of 3.4-5.5 mmol / l is considered. A condition characterized by elevated glucose levels is medically referred to as hyperglycemia.

Causes of high blood sugar in women, men and children:

1. The most common is diabetes.
2. Overeating easily digestible proteins.
3. Various stressful situations in life.
4. Severe infectious diseases.

Symptoms of glycemia:

1. Thirst, constant dry mouth.
2. Itching, skin rashes.
3. Frequent urination, polyuria, nocturia.
4. Weight loss.
5. Constant headaches and dizziness.
6. Poor blood clotting and prolonged wound healing.
7. Frequent illnesses, decreased immunity.
8. Weakness, fatigue.

This indicates high blood sugar, symptoms are common in women, but premature conclusions should not be drawn. It is best to use a glucometer (a device for measuring blood sugar). Measures need to be taken depending on the result.

You can not ignore the signs of high blood sugar in women. It is very important to take care of your health all the time, and not just at the time of any violations. Treatment of high blood sugar in a woman, if she is healthy lifestyle life, consists of proper nutrition, physical activity and psychological harmony.