What is a Hyper?
A "hyper" or hyperglycaemia refers to high blood sugar levels, which is common in people with diabetes when their insulin supply is insufficient or ineffective. While the term might be colloquial, understanding the symptoms and managing this condition is crucial for well-being.
Common Symptoms of Hyperglycaemia:
- Increased Thirst: Known as polydipsia, this is one of the body's ways to dilute the excess sugar in the blood.
- Frequent Urination: Polyuria results from the kidneys working overtime to filter and absorb the excess glucose.
- Fatigue: High blood sugar can lead to a lack of energy as the cells are deprived of the glucose they need for energy.
- Blurred Vision: High blood sugar can cause the lenses in your eyes to swell, altering your ability to focus.
- Headaches: A result of dehydration linked with high blood sugar.
Personal Experiences:
From my own experiences, which resonate with some of these symptoms, I've noticed:
- Anger Issues: When my blood sugar spikes, I find myself getting easily frustrated or angry, which is not typical of my usual demeanour.
- Irritability: Closely related to anger, this can affect personal and professional relationships if not managed.
- Sweating: An unexpected symptom that might come from the body trying to cool down or could be stress-related from the high glucose levels.
- Need for Solitude: I've learned that I need to step away from others to calm down and manage my emotions, which can be overwhelming during these episodes.
What to Do When Experiencing Hyperglycaemia:
- Monitor Blood Sugar: Regular checks can help you understand if your symptoms are indeed due to high blood sugar.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to help dilute the concentration of glucose in your blood.
- Insulin Adjustment: If you're on insulin, you might need an additional dose or correction, but always consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidance.
- Exercise: Physical activity can help lower blood sugar levels, but be cautious as exercise can sometimes increase blood sugar in certain conditions.
- Rest: If possible, rest might help manage symptoms like fatigue and irritability.
- Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate hyperglycaemia, so techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or engaging in a calming activity can be beneficial.
Long-Term Management:
- Diet Control: Work with a dietitian to balance your meals with the right mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
- Regular Check-ups: Keep up with medical appointments to adjust treatments as needed.
- Education: Continuous learning about diabetes management can empower you to handle hypers more effectively.
Conclusion:
Experiencing a hyper can be challenging, impacting not just physical health but emotional and social aspects of life as well. Recognizing your symptoms, like the anger, irritability, sweating, and the need for solitude I personally experience, is key to managing them effectively. By monitoring and adapting your lifestyle, you can control hyperglycaemia, leading to a healthier, more balanced life. Remember, each person's experience with diabetes is unique, so what works for one might not work for another; hence, personalizing your approach is crucial.