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Why does sugar appear in urine, and is it always a sign of diabetes?
General Medicine
Question #3951
50 days ago
27

Why does sugar appear in urine, and is it always a sign of diabetes? - #3951

Anonymously

I recently had a urine test, and my doctor said they found sugar in my urine. They suggested I take a blood glucose test to check for diabetes, but I’ve never had any symptoms before, so I’m confused about what this means. Does having sugar in urine always indicate diabetes, or could it be caused by something else? I read that kidney issues, high-carb meals, and certain medications can also lead to sugar spilling into urine. How do doctors determine the real cause? If this is an early sign of diabetes, can I reverse it by changing my diet and exercise habits? Or once sugar starts appearing in urine, does that mean blood sugar levels are already dangerously high? For those who have had sugar in their urine, what steps did you take next, and what was your final diagnosis?

Sugar in urine
Diabetes
Blood glucose
Kidney function
Urine test
Hyperglycemia
Early diabetes signs
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Doctors’ responses

Dr. Evgeny Arsentev
I am a highly qualified medical professional with over 15 years of experience in General Medicine. My expertise spans diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, providing evidence-based care, and mentoring junior doctors. I am dedicated to ensuring patient well-being through a combination of clinical skills and compassionate care.
49 days ago
Sugar in the urine, also known as glycosuria, can be a sign of high blood sugar levels, which is commonly associated with diabetes. However, it can also occur for other reasons. For example, if you’ve had a high-carb meal recently, it could temporarily raise your blood sugar. Kidney issues can also cause sugar to spill into the urine, as the kidneys might not filter properly. Certain medications (such as those used to treat high blood pressure or certain diuretics) can have similar effects. To determine the cause, your doctor will likely recommend a blood glucose test to check your blood sugar levels. If diabetes is suspected, further tests like an A1C test or oral glucose tolerance test may be needed. If the blood sugar levels are high, your doctor will work with you on a plan to manage it, which may include dietary changes, exercise, and potentially medication. If you’re in the early stages of diabetes, making lifestyle changes can help prevent or manage the condition. However, if blood sugar levels are already high, it’s important to take action to avoid complications.
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