Diabetic Coma in Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetic coma -- also known as hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome -- is a serious complication that can happen to a person with diabetes who is ill or whose body is stressed. It occurs more in people with type 2 diabetes as opposed to type 1 diabetes. Diabetic coma occurs when the blood sugar gets too high and the body becomes severely dehydrated. Unlike ketoacidosis, which typically occurs in people with type 1 diabetes and produces similar symptoms, no ketones are formed in diabetic coma. So rarely is there an acid build up in the blood. Ketoacidosis rarely occurs in people with type 2 diabetes. The CDC reports that diabetic coma occurs most often among people who are older than 60. This may be because older people often have an altered sense of being thirsty and are more likely to become dehydrated. Most sufferers have a history of diabetes, but for some, the disease is undiagnosed or untreated. In most cases, there is a history of excess thirst and urination for weeks prior to diagnosis. Excess urination and extreme elevations of blood sugar levels lead to dehydration throughout the body, including cells becoming dehydrated. The severe loss of body water can lead to shock, coma, and death. Death rates can be as high as 50%. People who are especially at risk include those who are chronically ill or disabled Causes of diabetic coma can include: Infection Heart attack Kidney failure Medicines (diuretics, heart medication, or steroids) Illness Bleeding ulcer Blood clot Uncontrolled blood sugar What Are the Warning Signs of Diabetic Coma? Warning signs of diabetic coma can include: Increased thirst Increased urination High fever Weakness Drowsiness Altered mental state Headache Restlessness Inability to speak Visual problems Hallucinations Paralysis Diabetic coma typically occurs when blood sugar reaches 600 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) or more. If you have any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical help. They can lead to coma, seizures, or death.