Diabetic coma -- also known as hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome -- is a serious complication that can happen to a person with type 2 diabetes who is ill or stressed. Diabetic coma occurs when the blood sugar gets too high and the body becomes severely dehydrated. Unlike ketoacidosis, which typically occurs in people with type 1 diabetes and produces similar symptoms, no ketones are formed in diabetic coma. So rarely is there an acid build up in the blood. Ketoacidosis rarely occurs in people with type 2 diabetes.
The CDC reports that diabetic coma occurs most often among people who are older than 60. This may be because older people often have an altered sense of being thirsty and are more likely to become dehydrated. Most sufferers have a history of diabetes, but for some, the disease is undiagnosed or untreated.
In most cases, there is a history of excess thirst and urination for weeks prior to diagnosis. Excess urination and extreme elevations of blood sugar levels lead to dehydration throughout the body, including cells becoming dehydrated. The severe loss of body water can lead to shock, coma, and death. Death rates can be as high as 50%.
People who are especially at risk include those who are chronically ill or disabled.
What Causes Diabetic Coma?
Causes of diabetic coma can include:
- Infection
- Heart attack
- Kidney failure
- Medicines (diuretics, heart medication, or steroids)
- Illness
- Bleeding ulcer
- Blood clot
- Uncontrolled blood sugar
What Are the Early Symptoms of Diabetic Coma?
Early symptoms that may lead to diabetic coma if not treated include:
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Weakness
- Drowsiness
- Altered mental state
- Headache
- Restlessness
- Inability to speak
- Paralysis
If you have any of these symptoms, test your blood sugar and call your doctor if your blood sugar is high. Diabetic coma typically occurs when blood sugar reaches 600 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) or more.
How Is Diabetic Coma Treated?
Once early symptoms of a diabetic coma are noticed, treatment typically requires intravenous fluids as ordered by your doctor and may require insulin. It can lead to death if left untreated.
How Can Diabetic Coma Be Prevented?
Diabetic coma can be prevented by the following:
- Check your blood sugar regularly, as recommended by your health care provider.
- Check your blood sugar every four hours when you are sick.
- Take special care of yourself when you are sick.
