Symptoms of High Blood Sugar

Feb 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

A friend of mine in his thirties has recently been experiencing frequent urination. We are wondering whether this could be caused by high blood sugar. Could you please tell us, doctor, what are the symptoms of high blood sugar?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng

High blood sugar symptoms include extreme thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, fatigue and lethargy, and rapid heartbeat.

1. Extreme thirst: When blood sugar levels rise, the body excretes excess sugar through urine, leading to reduced body water. This triggers the thirst center in the brain, causing a sensation of extreme thirst.

2. Frequent urination: Due to elevated blood sugar levels, the body excretes excess sugar through urine, resulting in increased urine output. Frequent urination may manifest as increased frequency of urination and larger urine volume.

3. Weight loss: When blood sugar cannot be effectively utilized, the body starts to consume fat and protein as energy sources, leading to weight loss.

4. Fatigue and lethargy: In a state of high blood sugar, body cells cannot properly absorb and utilize glucose to produce energy, causing feelings of fatigue and lethargy.

5. Rapid heartbeat: Elevated blood sugar may stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, causing rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath. Even without engaging in strenuous exercise, one may experience a noticeably faster heartbeat.

If high blood sugar is suspected, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention for blood glucose testing and related examinations. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle and dietary habits can help prevent hyperglycemia.