What is a diabetic coma?
A diabetic coma happens when a person with diabetes becomes unconscious. This condition occurs suddenly when the blood sugar is dangerously high (hyperglycemia) or severely low (hypoglycemia). This type of coma can happen in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
What happens when you are in a state of a diabetic coma? Like other diseases that cause coma, you are technically still alive when the condition triggers. However, you cannot wake up or respond to certain types of stimulation. Without treatment, a diabetic coma can also lead to death.
What are the signs of a diabetic coma?
The signs and symptoms of a diabetic coma depend on what triggers it. However, before it occurs, symptoms of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia can take place. Consider the following:
Hyperglycemia:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Blurry vision
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Upset stomach
- Dryness of the mouth
- Fruity breath odor
Hypoglycemia:
- Anxiety
- Tiredness
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Blurry vision
- Shakiness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Hunger
What causes a diabetic coma?
Hyperglycemia – When your blood sugar levels are too high, your body becomes dehydrated. This can lead to losing consciousness.
Hypoglycemia – When your blood sugar levels are severely low, the brain loses its capacity to function because of a lack of glucose supply. This can result in individuals losing consciousness.
DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis) – DKA is best known for the buildup of certain chemicals called ketones. When there isn’t enough insulin, the body starts breaking down fat into energy. It results in the production of ketones, toxic acids that are secreted through urine. Without proper treatment, DKA can lead to a diabetic coma.
How to prevent a diabetic coma?
Like other diseases, a diabetic coma is a result of uncontrolled diabetes. If you do not manage your blood sugar levels properly, certain health complications can develop, like a diabetic coma. Consider the following tips to prevent diabetic coma.
Stick to your meal plan – Follow a diet filled with fiber and protein. Avoid too many carbohydrates.
Always monitor your blood sugar – Follow regular blood sugar tests to measure your daily sugar levels. You can do this at home or the clinic.
Follow your prescription – Take your medication as directed by your doctor. This includes your daily insulin shots or oral drug consumption.
Stop your addiction – This addiction involves drinking alcohol. A glass of beer or wine can have an impact on your blood sugar.
Exercise regularly – Walking or jogging for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour daily is enough to support your diabetes management.
Follow these simple tips for managing your diabetes correctly. Note that a diabetic coma can permanently cause brain damage and even death. That’s why controlling and managing your blood sugar levels at the earliest time possible can save you from various life-threatening conditions.
Doctor’s Recommendation
It’s important to recognize the early signs of low or high blood sugar and check your levels regularly. Eating regular meals and taking your medication as prescribed are also key. Be aware of the risks and symptoms of diabetes complications, and know what to do if they occur. Let those around you, such as coworkers or family members, know about your condition, and consider wearing a medical ID bracelet or pendant so they can help if you become unconscious.
