Which of the following is a sign of hyperglycemia?

Warm, dry skin accompanied by fruity breath is a classic sign of hyperglycemia, which occurs when there is an excess of glucose in the bloodstream, typically seen in uncontrolled diabetes. The skin may feel warm and dry due to dehydration resulting from osmotic diuresis, where the kidneys excrete excess glucose and, consequently, water. The fruity breath, often described as a sweet or acetone-like odor, is due to the presence of ketones in the blood, which are produced when the body starts breaking down fat for energy in the absence of sufficient insulin. This combination of symptoms is key to recognizing hyperglycemic crises, such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state, necessitating immediate medical intervention.

Other symptoms, like cool, clammy skin with nausea, typically indicate hypoglycemia, where low blood sugar causes the body to activate its stress response leading to sweating and other symptoms. Shortness of breath and dizziness can occur in various conditions, not specific to hyperglycemia, and excessive sweating with a headache may also relate to other issues, including low blood sugar or stress responses, rather than high blood sugar levels. Hence, recognizing the distinct combination of warm, dry skin and fruity breath helps differentiate hypergly