Causes and management

The primary cause of hyperglycemia is diabetes mellitus, a condition where the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose from food get into your cells to be used for energy.

Other causes can include:

• Certain medications (like steroids)
• Pancreatitis
• Certain endocrine disorders
• Stress or illness
• Lack of physical activity
• Poor diet

Management focuses on controlling blood glucose levels. This typically involves:

• Diet: Eating a balanced diet low in refined sugars and carbohydrates.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps your body use glucose more efficiently.
• Medication: For many, this includes insulin injections or oral diabetes medications.
• Monitoring: Regularly checking blood glucose levels to track trends and adjust treatment.