This is What it Feels Like to Have High Blood Sugar

High blood sugar is a serious health concern that mostly affects people with diabetes and if left untreated can lead to major complications like vision loss, kidney disease and heart disease. There's several reasons why blood sugar can spike like not eating the right foods, dehydration, not being active and more, but when blood sugar goes up, it can feel awful. Eat This, Not That! Health spoke with  Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary's Hospital who explained what to know about high blood sugar and what it can feel like. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had COVID.

Dr. Curry-Winchell says, "The best way to check your blood sugar (glucose) levels is when you haven't eaten anything. We call that your normal fasting blood sugar. While there's a number of factors that can impact your blood sugar levels, we like to say "normal" is generally between 70 to 130 mg/dL. The best way to check your blood sugar is with a blood glucose meter which is widely available and an affordable option. " 

"In short, blood sugar supplies our energy," Dr. Curry-Winchell states. "It's really important to keep our blood sugar in a good range to reduce the risk of serious health issues including diabetes and heart disease. " 

According to Dr. Curry-Winchell, "For people without diabetes, your body should  naturally regulate blood sugar levels however, this could change – and that's why it's important for people to have a baseline knowledge of how to manage blood sugar levels through exercise and watching what you eat. " 

Dr. Curry-Winchell explains, "Typically, people won't experience significant symptoms until their blood sugar levels have spiked significantly. The most common feelings are fatigue, headaches, increased thirst, and a frequent urination. More serious symptoms include vomiting, shortness of breath and abdominal pain. " 

"Flat out, your blood sugar is your body's main source of energy so that's why it's vital to keep it in control," Dr. Curry-Winchell emphasizes. "If you have regular shifts in your blood sugar levels it could impact your mood, concentration, heart rate, etc."   6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

"Too much (glucose) or sugar in the bloodstream for long periods of time can be described as toxic and can cause permanent damage to your organs and blood vessels within your body which can cause kidney disease or failure, stroke, heart attack and blindness," says Dr. Curry-Winchell.

​​Dr. Curry-Winchell reminds us, "As they say, slow and steady wins the race. Maintaining a healthy weight, doing some regular exercises, and eating a well-balanced diet will put you in control. Yes, it might sound cliché – but try it, and I guarantee you'll see some changes in the right direction. "