High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can cause a range of symptoms, although many people have no noticeable signs, especially early on. If high blood sugar is persistent, it’s important to get evaluated because it can be a sign of diabetes or another medical condition.
Here are 12 common symptoms associated with high blood sugar:
- Increased thirst (feeling thirsty all the time).
- Frequent urination, especially at night.
- Increased hunger, even after eating.
- Fatigue or low energy.
- Blurred vision.
- Dry mouth.
- Unexplained weight loss, particularly in untreated diabetes.
- Slow-healing cuts or sores.
- Frequent infections, such as skin infections, urinary tract infections, or yeast infections.
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet (more common with long-term high blood sugar).
- Dry, itchy skin.
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling mentally foggy.
When to seek medical care
If you have several of these symptoms, especially increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare professional. A simple blood test can determine whether your blood sugar is elevated.
Seek urgent medical attention if high blood sugar is accompanied by:
- Confusion or severe drowsiness
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- A fruity-smelling breath
- Loss of consciousness
These can be signs of serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, which require immediate treatment.
It’s also worth noting that these symptoms are not specific to high blood sugar. They can have other causes, so symptoms alone can’t diagnose diabetes. Blood tests—such as a fasting blood glucose or an HbA1c test—are needed to confirm the cause.
