What is an expected sign of hyperglycemia?

Polyuria and polydipsia are classic signs of hyperglycemia. When blood glucose levels are elevated, the kidneys excrete excess glucose in the urine, leading to increased urination, or polyuria. As a result of the excessive urination, there is a loss of fluids, which results in dehydration. The body attempts to compensate for this fluid loss by increasing thirst, a condition known as polydipsia. These symptoms are often seen in conditions such as diabetes mellitus when blood sugar levels are not adequately controlled.

In contrast, the other symptoms listed do not correlate with hyperglycemia. Cold and clammy skin, along with diaphoresis and irritability, are often associated with hypoglycemia, which is characterized by low blood sugar levels. Weak pulse and fatigue can occur in various conditions but are not specific indicators of hyperglycemia. Understanding these signs helps in identifying and managing elevated blood sugar effectively in clinical settings.