Hyperglycemia is having too much sugar in the blood. Blood sugar is also known as blood glucose. Many things cause hyperglycemia. It is always found when diabetes is first diagnosed. High blood sugar can also be caused by:
* too little insulin,
* too much food,
* too little exercise,
* getting sick,
* an injury, or
* some medicines.

High blood sugar for a few hours or days causes:
* increased thirst, hunger and urination,
* quick weight loss,
* stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, and
* headache or blurry vision.

If it goes untreated for a long time, it can be life threatening. Hyperglycemia is treated with insulin and fluids. It can be prevented by:
* taking the right amount of insulin or other medicine at the right time,
* eating the right amount and kinds of food, and
* exercising regularly.

High blood sugar for weeks or longer causes damage to muscles, nerves and vital organs, such as:
* heart or kidney disease,
* blindness, and
* nerve damage, and
* damage to the blood vessels.

Diabetics must monitor their blood sugars levels. Some persons with less serious disease may test their blood less often, while some will have to monitor their blood several times a day. Using small drop of blood, a reagent strip and a monitor, you can measure your blood sugar in less than two minutes. If you are having trouble staying in the normal range, let your doctor know. To learn more, call your local Diabetes Association, or call (800) 232-3472.

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