Diabetic Coma Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

What is diabetic coma?

It is a serious complication of diabetes which causes unconsciousness. In case of having diabetes, hypoglycemia (extreme low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (extreme high blood sugar) can trigger diabetic come. In case of falling into diabetic coma, the patient is alive, however cannot awaken and purposely respond to sounds, sights or other stimulation types. If diabetic coma is left untreated, it can turn fatal.

Fortunately, the patient of diabetes can take certain steps in order to prevent the serious state. Initiate by pursuing the prescribed treatment plan of diabetes.

What are the symptoms of diabetic coma?

Normally, prior developing the state, the patient experiences certain symptoms of low blood sugar or high blood sugar. Such as:

• Low blood sugar:

1. Confusion.
2. Difficulty speaking.
3. Racing heartbeat.
4. Irritability.
5. Nausea.
6. Hunger.
7. Sweating.
8. Fatigue.
9. Shakiness.
10. Irregular heartbeat.
11. Nervousness.

• High blood sugar:

1. Stomach pain.
2. Breathing difficulties.
3. Fatigue.
4. Frequent urination.
5. Increased thirst.
6. Racing heartbeat.
7. Dry mouth.
8. Nausea.
9. Vomiting.

In case of experiencing the above mentioned symptoms of low or high blood sugar, one must test the blood sugar, whilst follow the treatment plan of diabetes based on its result. If the symptoms tend to persist or become worse, immediately visit your doctor for emergency help.

What causes diabetic coma?

Blood sugar extremities for a prolong period of time can trigger different health condition, all of which are considered responsible for leading diabetic coma. Such conditions include:

• Diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome.
• Hypoglycemia.

What are the risk factors of diabetic coma?

An individual suffering from diabetes is more likely to develop diabetic coma. Moreover, certain factors are also linked in triggering the state such as:

• Insulin delivery problems.
• A surgery.
• An illness or trauma.
• Poorly managed diabetes.
• Intentionally skipping insulin.
• Drinking alcohol.
• Illegal drug use.

What are the possible complications of diabetic coma?

In case, diabetic come is left untreated, it can lead:

• Permanent damage to your brain.
• Death.

How is diabetic come diagnosed?

Of course, prompt diagnosis of diabetic coma is very important. The medical team in an emergency room will conduct a physical exam, whilst ask about the medical history of the patient from relatives and friends accompanying the patient.

• Lab test:

1. Blood sugar level.
2. Amount of sodium, phosphate and potassium in blood.
3. Ketone level.
4. Amount of creatinine or nitrogen in blood.

How is diabetic coma treated?

Clearly, the emergency treatment types depends upon whether the blood sugar level is too low or too high.

• Low blood sugar:

1. Glucagon injection will immediately raise the blood sugar level, which will result in returning consciousness.

• High sugar level:
  1. Phosphate, sodium or potassium supplements in order to help proper functioning of cells.
  2. Intravenous fluids in order to restore the loss water to the tissues.
  3. Treatment for the causal infections, if any.
  4. Insulin, so that the tissues can absorb glucose.

 

By : Natural Health News