What are the symptoms of a diabetic coma? What causes a diabetic coma? How can you prevent a diabetic coma? Get the answers to these crucial questions and learn how to manage your diabetes effectively.

Defining Diabetic Coma

A diabetic coma is a life-threatening condition that occurs when your blood sugar levels become dangerously high or low, leading to unconsciousness. If left untreated, a diabetic coma can result in death. This disorder is a serious complication that can affect anyone with diabetes, making it crucial to understand the symptoms and causes to take preventive measures.

Symptoms of High and Low Blood Sugar

Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) often develop before a diabetic coma. Recognizing these warning signs can help you take prompt action to prevent the condition from progressing.

High Blood Sugar Symptoms

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

Low Blood Sugar Symptoms

• Shakiness
• Anxiety
• Tiredness or drowsiness
• Weakness
• Sweating
• Hunger
• A feeling of tingling on your skin
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Difficulty speaking
• Blurry vision
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness

Causes of Diabetic Coma

Diabetic coma can be caused by either high or low blood sugar levels that persist for an extended period. Understanding the specific causes can help you take preventive measures and manage your diabetes more effectively.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

If your muscle cells become starved for energy, your body may start breaking down fat for energy, leading to the production of toxic acids known as ketones. This condition, called diabetic ketoacidosis, 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 your blood sugar level rises above 600 mg/dL (33.3 mmol/L), the condition is known as diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome. The excess sugar passes from the blood into the urine, triggering a process that draws a large amount of fluid from the body, leading to severe dehydration and a diabetic coma.

Hypoglycemia

Your brain needs sugar (glucose) to function, and severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause you to pass out. Low blood sugar can be caused by too much insulin, not enough food, excessive exercise, or too much alcohol consumption.

Risk Factors for Diabetic Coma

While anyone with diabetes is at risk of developing a diabetic coma, certain factors can increase the likelihood of this life-threatening condition. Recognizing and addressing these risk factors can help you take proactive steps to prevent a diabetic coma.

Insulin Delivery Problems

If you’re using an insulin pump, it’s crucial to check your blood sugar frequently. Insulin delivery can stop if the pump fails or if the tubing becomes twisted or falls out of place, leading to diabetic ketoacidosis.

Illness, Trauma, or Surgery

When you’re sick, injured, or undergoing a surgical procedure, your blood sugar levels can change significantly, increasing the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis and diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome.

Poorly Managed Diabetes

If you don’t monitor your blood sugar properly or take your medications as directed by your healthcare provider, you have a higher risk of developing long-term health problems and a higher risk of diabetic coma.

Deliberately Skipping Meals or Insulin

People with diabetes who also have an eating disorder may choose not to use their insulin as they should, in the hope of losing weight. This is a dangerous, life-threatening practice that raises the risk of a diabetic coma.

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can have unpredictable effects on your blood sugar, and its effects may make it harder for you to recognize the symptoms of low blood sugar, increasing the risk of a diabetic coma caused by hypoglycemia.

Illegal Drug Use

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

Preventing Diabetic Coma

The best way to prevent a diabetic coma is to effectively manage your diabetes. This includes closely monitoring your blood sugar levels, taking your medications as prescribed, and following a healthy lifestyle.

Monitor Blood Sugar Levels

Regularly checking your blood sugar levels and responding promptly to high or low readings can help you avoid a diabetic coma. Work closely with your healthcare provider to develop an appropriate monitoring plan.

Take Medications as Directed

Adhering to your diabetes treatment plan, including taking insulin or other medications as prescribed, is crucial in preventing diabetic coma. Never skip or alter your medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and managing stress can all help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of a diabetic coma.

Seek Medical Attention Promptly

If you experience symptoms of high or low blood sugar, don’t hesitate to test your levels and seek medical care if necessary. Prompt treatment can prevent a diabetic coma from developing.

Conclusion

Diabetic coma is a serious, life-threatening complication that requires immediate medical attention. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and risk factors, and taking proactive steps to manage your diabetes, you can significantly reduce the risk of a diabetic coma and maintain your health and well-being.