What condition is characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood?

Hyperglycemia is characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. This condition commonly occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin or when the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin. Insulin is the hormone responsible for facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy. When its action is impaired or insufficient, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, resulting in hyperglycemia.

This condition is often associated with diabetes mellitus, where prolonged hyperglycemia can lead to various health complications, such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and kidney problems. Identifying hyperglycemia is crucial for managing diabetes and preventing acute conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state.

While hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels, glycosuria involves the presence of glucose in the urine, indicating that blood sugar levels are high enough for glucose to spill into the urine. Diabetes insipidus is a completely different condition that affects water balance in the body, leading to excessive urination and thirst, rather than altering blood sugar levels. Therefore, the defining characteristic of hyperglycemia is its direct association with elevated blood sugar, making it the correct answer for describing this condition.