Ask An Expert: Infection and Elevated Blood Glucose

Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School

Ask An Expert: Infection and Elevated Blood Glucose

Question:

Can a viral or bacterial infection cause an elevated blood glucose level in a type 2 diabetic?

Answer:

For a person who has diabetes, it is very common for a viral or bacterial infection to result in elevated blood glucose levels. In fact, elevated sugar levels are sometimes the first clue that an infection has developed. During an infection, your body chemistry changes as your immune system becomes active. Your body produces hormones (cortisol and others) that interfere with your usual insulin production. These hormones can also blunt the effect insulin has in your body, making you more resistant to insulin than you already are.

Occasionally, blood sugar levels can be dangerously high in the setting of infection. It is important for a person with diabetes to drink plenty of fluids during any infection, and to see a doctor without delay if an infection has developed.

When the infection is cleared, blood sugar returns to usual levels.

Mary Pickett, M.D., is a lecturer for Harvard Medical School and an assistant professor of medicine at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, OR. At OHSU, she practices general internal medicine and teaches medical residents and students.

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Last updated:	January 24, 2007

Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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