
Glycosuria
Causes of glucosuria
The most common causes of glucosuria are:
- **Diabetes mellitus**: In uncontrolled diabetes, blood sugar levels increase, overwhelming the kidneys and causing glucose to enter the urine.
- **Renal threshold for glucose**: Some people have a lower renal threshold for glucose, meaning that glucose can appear in the urine even at normal blood sugar levels.
- **Gestational diabetes**: During pregnancy, a temporary form of diabetes can occur, which also leads to glucosuria.
- **Kidney damage**: Kidney diseases, such as diabetic nephropathy, can impair the kidneys' ability to effectively reabsorb glucose.
- **Hormonal disorders**: Conditions like Cushing's syndrome or hyperthyroidism can lead to elevated blood sugar levels and glucosuria.
- **Medications**: Certain medications, such as diuretics or corticosteroids, can affect glucose excretion.
Symptoms of glucosuria
- Frequent urination (Polyuria)
- Increased thirst (Polydipsia)
- Fatigue or weakness
- Unusually sweet-smelling urine
- Weight loss
Diagnosis of glucosuria
The diagnosis of glucosuria is made through a urinalysis, in which the glucose content in the urine is measured. To determine the underlying cause, the blood sugar level is usually also checked. If diabetes is suspected, a glucose tolerance test or a long-term blood sugar test (HbA1c) may be performed. Further examinations such as blood tests and kidney function tests may be necessary to determine the cause of glucosuria.
Treatment options for glucosuria
The treatment of glucosuria depends on the underlying cause:
- Diabetes management: In diabetes, medication, insulin therapy, or diet adjustments are made to control blood sugar levels and reduce glucosuria.
- Treatment of kidney diseases: In cases of kidney damage, kidney function is closely monitored and treated to prevent further damage and minimize glucose loss in the urine.
- Hormone therapy: In hormonal disorders such as Cushing's syndrome, appropriate hormone treatment is initiated to normalize glucose excretion.
- Gestational diabetes: During pregnancy, a special diet or insulin therapy may be necessary to control blood sugar levels and avoid complications.
Preventive measures for glucosuria
A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of glucosuria, especially in people at risk of diabetes. Regular blood sugar checks are crucial to detect and treat diabetes early. In the case of existing kidney diseases, kidney function should be regularly checked and monitored to minimize the risk of glucosuria and further complications.
Common Patient Questions About Glucosuria
Yes, glucosuria can also occur with normal blood sugar levels, for example due to a kidney disease or during pregnancy.
In addition to urinalysis, blood tests are often performed to determine blood sugar levels and kidney function.
If left untreated, glucosuria, especially when caused by diabetes, can lead to dehydration and electrolyte disturbances.
A carbohydrate-rich diet can lead to elevated blood sugar and thus to glucosuria in individuals with diabetes.
During pregnancy, the renal threshold for glucose can decrease, which can lead to glucosuria. Nevertheless, gestational diabetes should be ruled out.