Which symptom is most characteristic of hyperglycemia?

Which symptom is most characteristic of hyperglycemia?

• A. Acetone breath and polydipsia
• B. Nausea only
• C. Chest pain
• D. Frequent urination with normal breath

Answer: (A)

Hyperglycemia, especially with ketosis, often presents with dehydration from polyuria and a fruity, acetone breath. Polydipsia occurs as the body tries to compensate for the dehydration, making these signs a classic pair. The other options don’t capture that defining combination: nausea can occur but isn’t as specific; chest pain isn’t typical of hyperglycemia; frequent urination with normal breath misses the hallmark fruity odor seen with ketosis.

Hyperglycemia, especially with ketosis, often presents with dehydration from polyuria and a fruity, acetone breath. Polydipsia occurs as the body tries to compensate for the dehydration, making these signs a classic pair. The other options don’t capture that defining combination: nausea can occur but isn’t as specific; chest pain isn’t typical of hyperglycemia; frequent urination with normal breath misses the hallmark fruity odor seen with ketosis.