Diabetic coma or diabetic shock is a form of coma, which can) be life-threatening for those who have diabetes. It causes unconsciousness and you can’t respond to the environment. It occurs to those who suffer from low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). You must consult a physician if you have a diabetic coma.
What Are the Symptoms of Diabetic Coma?
Many causes lead to a diabetic coma. Here are the symptoms
Low Blood Sugar-Hypoglycemia
- Fatigue
- Stomach ache
- Vomiting and Nausea
- Frequent Sickness
- Feeling tired
- Weakness
- Struggles while communicating
- Anxiety
- Sweating
- Fast breathing
- Light-headedness
High Blood Sugar- Hyperglycemia
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Dry Mouth
- Walking unsteadily
- The fruity smell in the mouth.
- Weak pulse
- Excessive thirst
- Drowsiness
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling hunger
- Shortness of breath
Diabetic Coma Treatment
A diabetic patient can recover from this coma. It depends on the treatment type. Treating hyperglycemia needs intravenous fluids to increase fluid levels in the body. It also provides insulin to help cells consume excess spreading glucose.
If your body requires sodium, potassium or phosphate, you have to take supplements to get yourself to a healthy stage. It is the same treatment as DKA.
Prompt and appropriate treatment is essential to prevent complications and ensure the well-being of those affected. In this article, we will discuss the various treatment options available for diabetic coma, emphasizing the importance of seeking immediate medical attention.
- Emergency Medical Care: Diabetic coma requires urgent medical attention. If you suspect someone is experiencing a diabetic coma, call emergency services right away. Medical professionals will evaluate the individual’s condition and take immediate steps to stabilize their vital signs and manage their blood sugar levels.
- Intravenous Fluids: Intravenous (IV) fluids are administered to individuals in a diabetic coma to restore hydration and maintain electrolyte balance. This helps prevent further complications and supports organ function. IV fluids may contain glucose or insulin, depending on the underlying cause of the coma.
- Insulin Therapy: In cases of hyperglycemic diabetic coma (caused by excessively high blood sugar levels), insulin therapy is initiated to lower blood glucose levels. Medical professionals carefully monitor blood sugar levels and administer insulin either through injections or an insulin pump. The goal is to gradually bring blood sugar levels back to a safe range.
- Glucagon Injection: In situations where a diabetic coma is caused by severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels), glucagon injections may be administered. Glucagon helps raise blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose. This treatment can rapidly reverse the effects of low blood sugar and restore consciousness.
- Identification and Treatment of Underlying Causes: Diabetic coma can have various underlying causes, such as infection, medication non-compliance, or other medical conditions. Identifying and addressing these underlying factors is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of future episodes. Medical professionals will conduct a thorough evaluation and administer appropriate treatments to manage any contributing factors.
- Continuous Monitoring and Support: During treatment for diabetic coma, individuals are continuously monitored to ensure stable vital signs, blood sugar levels, and overall improvement. Medical professionals will closely monitor electrolyte levels, kidney function, and other relevant parameters. Supportive care, such as oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation, may be provided if necessary.
Recovery
If your sugar glucose level is normal you feel better quickly. If you find any symptoms of diabetic shock, promptly visit the diabetic doctor. A severe diabetic coma has a great chance to make a person unconscious for several hours. It causes damage to your brain and could result in death. You must take medication for a severe diabetic shock to recover completely.
You should wear a medical identification bracelet that ensures the diabetic level and helps to get the proper treatment on time. Consulting with your doctor is mandatory if you face this type of coma without having any clue that you have diabetes too.
Prevention
- Monitor your sugar level especially when you are sick.
- You must maintain the glucose level in the body. For that, you should take tests like blood sugar tests and ketones as per Physician recommendations.
- Keep an eye on your carbohydrate intake. Consult a dietician for a proper diet plan.
- You should be aware of what will happen if you fail to take insulin or other medication as prescribed. It promotes the symptoms of both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia.
- It seems like an unusual case, but you must learn everything about the cause and symptoms of a diabetic shock to prevent it in a better manner.
