How do high blood sugar levels harm people with diabetes?
High blood sugars cause the body to slow down. When sugar levels are high, blood thickening occurs which causes a reduction of oxygen in the brain and this lessens responses to stimuli. In turn, chemical synapses don’t function properly, reducing the brain's ability to process information. This makes it harder to think and process data clearly. It impacts memory recall, attention, concentration, focus and retention of external information, making learning difficult and in some cases impossible for the child or adult diabetic.
At first, high blood sugar levels sap your energy, make your vision blurry, and mess with your mood and concentration. You will be more susceptible to infection, to heart attacks and strokes, and if you’re male—to erectile dysfunction. In short, high blood sugar levels pretty much screw up your entire mind and body. And that’s just the beginning.
High levels of sugar in your blood make it corrosive, turning the life-sustaining soup into a killing battery acid circulating throughout your body. Sustained high blood sugar levels will destroy your kidneys, cause blindness, and kindle nerve damage. You’ll heal from injuries slowly, if at all, putting you at risk for lower extremity amputations.
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Beyond Fingersticks: The art of control with continuous glucose monitoring
Continue Learning about Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia is a condition where blood sugar levels are increased. Hyperglycemia is usually the first sign of diabetes mellitus.
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.