Diabetic coma: hyper- and hypoglycemic. what is it and what causes it?

Diabetic coma is a condition that may occur in people with diabetes, both type 1 and type 2, when glucose metabolism is significantly impaired. In this article, we will discuss what diabetic coma is, what causes it, what types there are, and what to do if this condition occurs.

Diabetic coma – what is it, what causes it and what are its types?

Diabetic coma is an extreme state of abnormal blood sugar levels that can occur either with excessively high glucose levels (hyperglycemia) or with excessively low glucose levels (hypoglycemia).

Hyper- and hypoglycemic coma

Hyper- and hypoglycemic diabetic coma are two different conditions that can occur in patients with diabetes.

Hyperglycemic comais caused by excessively high levels of glucose in the blood. The main causes are incorrect insulin dose, lack of diabetes treatment or infections. As a result of this condition, the body is unable to use glucose for energy production, which leads to serious metabolic disorders.

Hypoglycemic coma, on the other hand, is the result of excessively low blood glucose levels. This is a condition that may occur when a diabetic patient takes too much insulin or other blood sugar-lowering drugs, as well as in the event of irregular meals or excessive exercise. Hypoglycemia may lead to loss of consciousness and requires immediate intervention.

Symptoms of diabetic coma

Symptoms of diabetic coma may vary depending on the type and degree of glucose metabolism disorder. Nevertheless, there are some common symptoms that are worth knowing:

• High or low blood glucose levels
• Disturbances in consciousness, e.g. coma, disorientation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Strong thirst
• Muscle cramps
• Breathing problems
• Fast or slow pulse

Treatment and prognosis of diabetic coma

Treatment of diabetic coma depends on its type and stage of advancement. In case of hyperglycemic coma, it is necessary to administer insulin and correct metabolic disorders. However, in the case of hypoglycemic coma, glucose must be delivered to the body to quickly raise the blood sugar level.

The prognosis depends on the time that has passed since the onset of the coma and the effectiveness and speed of the assistance provided. In the case of hypoglycemic coma, prompt intervention can lead to full recovery, while in the case of hyperglycemic coma, complications such as organ damage may occur.

First aid for diabetic coma

If you suspect a diabetic coma, regardless of its type, seek medical help immediately. However, there are also some steps you can take while waiting for rescuers to arrive:

• If the patient is conscious, give him glucose or sugar
• If the patient is unconscious, do not try to give him food or drink as this may result in choking
• Place the patient in the side position to prevent aspiration of vomit
• Monitor vital signs such as breathing and pulse

Your suggestions

If you have diabetes or are caring for someone with diabetes, it is a good idea to monitor your blood glucose levels regularly and adjust your treatment as directed by your doctor. It is also worth participating in diabetes education programs to better understand the disease and avoid complications.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in diabetes and its complications, we also recommend reading articles on diet for diabetics, physical activity in diabetes and monitoring blood glucose levels. Knowing this can help you lead a healthy and active life despite diabetes.