What is Diabetic coma ? and How to avoid it ?

Diabetic coma does not happen only due to decreased blood sugar level, it happens also as a result of extremely high blood sugar levels.

Diabetic coma is a dangerous complication that patients should be aware of, so let’s learn about types, signs, causes, and how to manage it.

What is a diabetic coma?

A diabetic coma is one of the serious complications related to diabetes. It is a life-threatening condition that needs immediate and careful management.

When a patient lapses into a diabetic coma, he loses consciousness and can not respond to any type of stimulus.

Types of diabetic coma

1. High blood sugar coma
2. Low blood sugar coma

Sign and Symptoms

According to the type of coma, the signs and symptoms vary as next:

High blood sugar coma

1. Fatigue
2. Nausea and vomiting
3. Dizziness
4. Pain in the stomach
5. Dry mouth
6. Thirst
7. Frequent urination
8. The odor of breath is fruity
9. Difficulty in breathing
10. Rapid heartbeats

Low blood sugar coma

1. Anxiety
2. Nervousness
3. Confusion
4. Dizziness
5. Fatigue
6. Heavy sweat
7. Hunger
8. Difficulty in speaking

If you feel one or more of these symptoms, check your blood glucose level immediately, and fix it to reach the optimal level.

Causes

1. Hypoglycemia:
   When the blood sugar level is decreased, the coma occurs. Your brain needs glucose to function, and when the glucose level is low, coma happens.
   Low level of blood glucose occurs due to high level of insulin and insufficient food intake.
2. Sever hyperglycemia:
   In high blood sugar levels ( above 600 mg/dL ), the blood become thick and syrup-like viscosity.
   This condition called { Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome }.

Predisposing factors that may cause diabetic coma

• Neglecting of regular blood sugar assessment
• Skipping insulin shots or meals
• Some kinds of traumas and surgical procedures can elevate our blood sugar level
• Kidney failure can promote diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome

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