What are the symptoms of diabetic coma? What causes a diabetic coma? How can a diabetic coma be treated. Get the answers to these questions and more in this comprehensive article.

Understanding Diabetic Coma

A diabetic coma is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a person with diabetes experiences dangerously high or low blood sugar levels. This severe imbalance in blood sugar can lead to unconsciousness and, if left untreated, can result in death. Diabetic coma is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Symptoms of Diabetic Coma

The symptoms of diabetic coma can vary depending on whether the underlying issue is high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

Symptoms of High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Tiredness or weakness
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Stomach pain
• Fruity breath odor
• Dry mouth

Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

• Shakiness
• Anxiety
• Tiredness or drowsiness
• Weakness
• Sweating
• Hunger
• Tingling sensation on the skin
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Difficulty speaking
• Blurry vision
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness

It’s important to note that some individuals with diabetes, especially those who have had the condition for a long time, may develop a condition called “hypoglycemia unawareness.” This means they don’t experience the typical warning signs of low blood sugar.

Causes of Diabetic Coma

Diabetic coma can be caused by either high or low blood sugar levels that persist for an extended period. The specific causes include:

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

If the body’s muscle cells are unable to access glucose for energy, it may start breaking down fat for fuel. This process creates toxic acids called ketones, which can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. This condition is most common in people with type 1 diabetes but can also occur in those with type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes.

Diabetic Hyperosmolar Syndrome

When blood sugar levels rise above 600 mg/dL (33.3 mmol/L), it’s known as diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome. The excess sugar in the blood causes the body to lose a large amount of fluid, leading to severe dehydration and potentially a diabetic coma.

Hypoglycemia

Severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause the brain to malfunction, leading to a diabetic coma. This can happen due to too much insulin, not enough food, excessive exercise, or heavy alcohol consumption.

Risk Factors for Diabetic Coma

While anyone with diabetes can experience a diabetic coma, certain factors can increase the risk, including:

Insulin Delivery Problems

Issues with insulin pumps or insulin administration can lead to a lack of insulin, increasing the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Illness, Trauma, or Surgery

These events can cause significant changes in blood sugar levels, raising the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis or diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome.

Poorly Managed Diabetes

Failure to monitor blood sugar levels or properly take medication as prescribed by a healthcare provider can increase the risk of long-term complications, including diabetic coma.

Deliberately Skipping Meals or Insulin

People with diabetes who also have an eating disorder may intentionally skip meals or insulin, which can be life-threatening and increase the risk of diabetic coma.

Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol can have unpredictable effects on blood sugar levels and can make it harder to recognize the symptoms of low blood sugar, increasing the risk of a hypoglycemia-induced diabetic coma.

Illegal Drug Use

Illegal drugs, such as cocaine, can also disrupt blood sugar regulation and increase the risk of a diabetic coma.

Treating Diabetic Coma

Diabetic coma is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. The specific treatment will depend on the underlying cause (high or low blood sugar).

Treating Hyperglycemia-Induced Diabetic Coma

Treatment for diabetic coma caused by high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) typically involves administering insulin, fluids, and electrolytes to correct the underlying imbalance.

Treating Hypoglycemia-Induced Diabetic Coma

For diabetic coma caused by low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), the goal is to quickly raise the person’s blood sugar levels. This may involve administering glucose, glucagon, or other appropriate treatments.

In both cases, the person will likely be hospitalized for close monitoring and continued treatment until they are stabilized and the underlying issue is resolved.

Preventing Diabetic Coma

The best way to prevent a diabetic coma is to actively manage your diabetes by:

• Closely monitoring your blood sugar levels
• Taking insulin and other medications as prescribed
• Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine
• Seeking medical attention promptly for any signs of high or low blood sugar

By following your diabetes treatment plan and being proactive about your health, you can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing a life-threatening diabetic coma.