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In diabetes management, what does the term “hyperglycemia” mean?
Correct Incorrect Hyperglycemia is defined as abnormally high concentrations of glucose in the blood, typically fasting plasma glucose levels above 126 mg/dL or postprandial levels above 200 mg/dL. It is the central metabolic disturbance in diabetes mellitus, resulting from inadequate insulin secretion, insulin resistance, or both. Persistent hyperglycemia causes acute symptoms such as polyuria, polydipsia, and fatigue, and, if uncontrolled over time, leads to chronic complications including neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular disease. Effective diabetes management focuses on preventing and correcting hyperglycemia through lifestyle changes, pharmacotherapy, and regular glucose monitoring.