14 Symptoms of Very High Blood Sugar

High blood sugar can weaken the immune system, leading to yeast, skin, or urinary infections.

Slow-healing wounds

High glucose levels impair blood flow and immune response, delaying healing.

Unexplained weight loss

If your body can’t use glucose properly, it may burn fat and muscle for energy.

Nausea or vomiting

Severe hyperglycemia can irritate the stomach or indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Fruity-smelling breath

A warning sign of DKA, caused by ketone buildup.

Confusion or difficulty concentrating

Brain cells can’t function optimally without proper glucose uptake.

Rapid heartbeat or palpitations

Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance from high sugar can affect heart rhythm.

Swollen or tingling hands and feet (neuropathy)

Long-term high blood sugar can damage nerves, causing tingling, numbness, or pain.

⚠️ Important: If you notice several of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Very high blood sugar can lead to diabetic emergencies such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), which are life-threatening.