Question:
I have been told that my sugar level was high and have had a glucose test. However, I have not got the results back and have since been feeling unwell. I have headaches, feel tired, very hot and sweat during the night and then feel very cold within hours. Also I feel dizzy.

Answer:
I am not sure if you have been diagnosed with diabetes or how high your sugar level was exactly, but I can give you a bit of a general overview of raised sugar levels and what they can mean. Many people who develop diabetes type 2 or pre-diabetes in adulthood have mildly raised sugar levels that may be entirely without symptoms. This is why so many people can have this type of diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance and not know it. Usually a batch of tests including a glucose tolerance test and insulin test will be needed to observe how your body responds to sugar. If a person's blood sugar level is moderate or very high, this needs to be addressed immediately, particularly with diabetes type 1 when someone first presents or where diabetes management has failed to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Symptoms of extremely high blood sugar levels can include thirst, tiredness, blurred vision, increased passing of urine, dizziness and headaches.

It's a good idea to contact your doctor ASAP if you have hot/cold sweats, headaches and are unwell or have been diagnosed with high blood sugar levels. If it turns out that you only have slightly raised sugar levels, then it could be that you have another condition or acute infection, which is a separate issue (although it's worth remembering that even a viral illness can bump up your sugar levels). As everyone's situation will vary, I suggest you see your GP for an immediate follow-up appointment to confirm your results. If your sugar levels are raised, lifestyle changes will be recommended to get your sugar levels into a healthy range. Your doctor can also let you know exactly what symptoms you will need to monitor and how often you need a check-up. Diabetes Australia has wonderful online resources at www.diabetesaustralia.com.au