High blood glucose, or hyperglycemia, occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not use the insulin correctly. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and helps to move sugar, or glucose, into the body’s cells to create energy. When there is a lack of insulin, sugar builds up in the blood causing high blood glucose levels.
High blood glucose can be toxic and lead to:
- Heart disease
- Kidney failure
- Neuropathy (nerve damage)
- Eye damage
- Foot problems
- Decreased circulation
Having a high blood sugar level can be a symptom of diabetes, including Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. It is important to have the correct balance of diet, exercise and insulin to keep the sugar level in the blood at a normal level. If there is not enough sugar in the bloodstream, low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, occurs.
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