Diabetic coma

The blue circle is the universal symbol for diabetes.

A diabetic coma is a life-threatening diabetes complication that causes unconsciousness. If you have diabetes, dangerously high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to a diabetic coma. If left untreated, a diabetic coma can be fatal.

Causes

A diabetic coma can occur in people with both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. The main causes include:

• Severe hypoglycemia: This occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low, often due to excessive insulin administration, insufficient food intake, or excessive physical activity.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): This is more common in type 1 diabetes and occurs when the body starts breaking down fats at an excessive rate, leading to the accumulation of ketones in the blood.
• Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS): This is more common in type 2 diabetes and is characterized by extremely high blood sugar levels without the presence of ketones.

Symptoms

The symptoms leading up to a diabetic coma vary depending on whether the blood sugar is too high or too low.

Symptoms of Hyperglycemia

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Stomach pain
• Fruity-scented breath

Symptoms of Hypoglycemia

• Shakiness
• Sweating
• Hunger
• Irritability
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Weakness

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a diabetic coma involves:

• Checking blood sugar levels
• Testing for ketones in the blood or urine
• Assessing the patient's medical history and symptoms

Treatment

The treatment for a diabetic coma depends on whether the cause is hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.

Treatment for Hyperglycemia

• Intravenous fluids to restore hydration
• Insulin therapy to lower blood sugar levels
• Electrolyte replacement

Treatment for Hypoglycemia

• Administration of glucose, either orally or intravenously
• Glucagon injection if the patient is unable to take glucose orally

Prevention

Preventing a diabetic coma involves careful management of diabetes:

• Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels
• Adhering to a diabetes management plan
• Recognizing early symptoms of high or low blood sugar
• Educating family and friends about diabetes emergencies

Related pages

• Diabetes mellitus
• Type 1 diabetes
• Type 2 diabetes
• Diabetic ketoacidosis
• Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state