Hyperglykemian

Hyperglykemian is a term occasionally used to denote a state of elevated blood glucose. It is not widely used in contemporary medical literature, where hyperglycemia is the standard term. The word combines the prefix hyper-, meaning above normal, with the Greek roots related to sugar in the blood.

In clinical context, elevated plasma glucose refers to levels higher than the normal physiologic range. Diagnostic thresholds commonly cited for diabetes include fasting plasma glucose around or above 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) or a random glucose of 200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L) accompanied by symptoms. A1c testing reflects average glucose over roughly three months, with values at or above about 6.5% meeting diagnostic criteria in many guidelines. Hyperglykemian, like hyperglycemia, can be acute or chronic and may be asymptomatic for a period.

Causes include inadequate insulin production or action, illness or stress, poor treatment adherence, certain medications (such as corticosteroids), and dietary excess. It can occur in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as in gestational diabetes or isolated impaired glucose regulation.

Complications arise from prolonged or severe elevations, including dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, and, if untreated, progression to diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic states. Management centers on correcting glucose toward target ranges, treating underlying causes, ensuring adequate fluids and electrolytes, and adjusting medications, particularly insulin, while monitoring for safety. Preventive measures emphasize regular glucose monitoring, weight management, physical activity, and adherence to therapy.