What Does High Blood Sugar Feel Like

At Arkansas Diabetes and Endocrinology Center, we understand that the early signs of rising blood sugar can be subtle and easily overlooked. You may notice symptoms such as increased thirst, dry mouth, or needing to urinate more frequently—including at night—as your body tries to get rid of excess sugar. Feeling unusually tired, experiencing blurred vision, headaches, difficulty concentrating, or unexplained irritability can also signal that your blood sugar is higher than normal.

If you recognize any of these symptoms, especially if you have risk factors for diabetes or a history of blood sugar concerns, it’s important to monitor your blood sugar and reach out to our team. Early detection and timely intervention are key to preventing more serious complications. The specialists at Arkansas Diabetes and Endocrinology Center are here to provide personalized care and support for all your diabetes and endocrine health needs.

At Arkansas Diabetes and Endocrinology Center, we often see patients who experience headaches and a “foggy” or mentally cloudy feeling—symptoms that can be linked to high blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia. When blood glucose levels rise above the normal range, the body’s ability to use or regulate sugar is disrupted, most commonly in people with diabetes. This excess sugar in the bloodstream can lead to dehydration, as the body attempts to remove the extra glucose through increased urination. Dehydration, in turn, is a common trigger for headaches.

The brain is especially sensitive to changes in blood sugar. High glucose levels can affect neurotransmitter balance and overall brain function, causing symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, confusion, and mental sluggishness or “brain fog.” Many patients also report feeling irritable, tired, or generally unwell during episodes of high blood sugar.

If you are frequently experiencing headaches or a foggy feeling—especially if you have risk factors for diabetes or known issues with blood sugar regulation—it is important to discuss these symptoms with one of our experienced providers. Regular blood sugar monitoring and individualized treatment plans can help you maintain your glucose within the target range, reducing uncomfortable symptoms and lowering the risk of more serious complications.

We often see patients experiencing nausea or stomach discomfort related to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Elevated glucose levels can have several effects on the digestive system. One common complication is gastroparesis—a condition where high blood sugar interferes with the normal movement of food through the stomach. In gastroparesis, the stomach muscles don’t contract properly, causing food to move more slowly into the small intestine. This delayed emptying can lead to symptoms like nausea, bloating, a feeling of fullness, and sometimes vomiting.

High blood sugar can also increase urination, leading to dehydration. Dehydration itself can cause or worsen nausea and make you feel generally unwell. Over time, uncontrolled blood sugar levels can damage the nerves that control digestion, further contributing to gastrointestinal symptoms.

At Arkansas Diabetes and Endocrinology Center, we emphasize the importance of recognizing and managing these symptoms. Persistent or severe nausea and stomach issues may be a sign of poor blood sugar control or related complications. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a consultation with our providers. Our experienced team can help you achieve better blood sugar control and work with you to prevent or manage complications that affect your digestive health.

At Arkansas Diabetes and Endocrinology Center, we frequently see patients concerned about blood sugar—even those who have never been diagnosed with diabetes. It’s important to understand that anyone can experience symptoms of high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, under certain conditions. Factors such as stress, illness, specific medications, or eating large amounts of carbohydrate-rich foods can temporarily elevate blood glucose, regardless of your diabetes status.

Common signs of high blood sugar include:
●Increased thirst
●Frequent urination
●Fatigue
●Blurred vision
●Headaches
●Slow-healing wounds

Not everyone will notice these symptoms, and mild elevations may not cause any symptoms at all. However, if you are experiencing these signs persistently, it’s important not to ignore them.

While a single episode of high blood sugar doesn’t necessarily mean you have diabetes, repeated symptoms could be a sign of prediabetes or another underlying health issue. If you have risk factors such as being overweight, a family history of diabetes, or a sedentary lifestyle, you may be at higher risk.

When to call the Arkansas Diabetes & Endocrinology Center for high blood sugar symptoms.

At Arkansas Diabetes and Endocrinology Center, your health and safety are our top priorities. If you are experiencing symptoms of high blood sugar, it is important to know when to reach out to Dr. James Thrasher, MD, for medical advice and support.

Please contact us if your blood sugar readings consistently remain above the target range provided by your healthcare provider—especially if your blood glucose stays above 250 mg/dL and does not come down with your usual treatment plan.

You should also reach out to our office if you develop any of the following symptoms:
●Increased thirst or dry mouth
●Frequent urination
●Unusual fatigue or weakness
●Nausea or vomiting
●Blurred vision

These symptoms may indicate that your blood sugar is too high and needs medical attention.

If you are unable to keep fluids down, notice a fruity odor on your breath, experience rapid or deep breathing, confusion, or abdominal pain, these can be signs of diabetic ketoacidosis—a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. In these cases, contact Arkansas Diabetes and Endocrinology Center immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

Contact us for an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 11400 Huron Lane, Little Rock, AR 72211. In our Little Rock office we serve patients from across the state including areas such as Little Rock AR, Conway AR, North Little Rock AR, Pine Bluff AR, Hot Springs AR, Benton AR, Sherwood AR, Russellville AR, Jacksonville AR, Cabot AR, Searcy AR, Bryant AR, Jonesboro AR, Forrest City AR, Magnolia AR, Camden AR, Malvern AR, Batesville AR, Arkadelphia AR, Clarksville AR, Monticello AR, Heber Springs AR, Morrilton AR, Stuttgart AR, Greenbrier AR, Sheridan AR, and Vilonia AR. If the commute to Little Rock is too far or difficult we can establish a visit remotely by using telemedicine.