Diabetes that is not managed correctly can lead to serious complications. This includes blindness, heart disease, amputations and infections. Poorly controlled blood sugar can also cause a diabetic coma. The good news is that by keeping blood glucose levels in check and making lifestyle choices, these complications can be prevented. However, if a diabetic coma does occur, prompt medical treatment is required.
Identification
After a meal, food is converted into glucose or blood sugar so it can be used by the body for the energy it needs. In order for the cells to be able to use the glucose, a hormone called insulin must be available.
In the case of diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the body is unable to use the insulin that is present. Type 1 diabetes, which accounts for about 5 to 10 percent of all cases, is caused by an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that make insulin, claims the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. This type may be present at birth or not appear until later in life.
Type 2 diabetes is usually the result of age, obesity, lack of exercise and poor nutrition. Diabetes can also occur as a complication of pregnancy. In any case, when the body can not use the glucose for energy, many symptoms can appear.
Cause
A diabetic coma can occur when blood sugar levels get too high or too low, warns the Mayo Clinic. If blood sugar levels get too low, the muscles in the body do not get the energy they need. In turn, the body may begin to break down fat. This process leads to byproduct called ketones, which are toxic acids that are released into the blood stream. They can build up in the body and cause a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis can result in a diabetic coma, which can be life threatening.
Low blood sugar levels can also starve the brain of the energy it needs. When the brain can not function correctly, a diabetic may pass out and lapse into a coma.
If blood sugar levels get too high, the blood becomes thick from the excess sugar, and a condition called diabetic hyperosmolar may occur. In this case, the body tries to get rid of the excess sugar by increasing urination. This can lead to dehydration and a diabetic coma.
Treatment
The treatment required for a diabetic coma depends on the cause. If blood sugar levels are too high, a condition known as hyperglycemia, then fluids and electrolytes may be given intravenously, along with injections of insulin to help quickly bring blood sugar levels down. If blood glucose levels are too low, or hypoglycemia, an injection of glucagon may be administered to quickly raise the level.
According to the Mayo Clinic, in most cases the patient regains consciousness once blood sugar levels are brought under control. However, if treatment is delayed, death can occur. The possibility of dying from a diabetic coma is based on the patient's age, general health, blood sugar level and the length of time that elapsed before treatment was sought.
Considerations
An important step in the successful treatment of a diabetic coma is to learn to recognize the symptoms of high or low blood glucose levels. If symptoms appear it is necessary to seek medical attention quickly. Before lapsing into unconsciousness, a diabetic may exhibit warning signs. The American Diabetes Association suggests being on the look out for excessive thirst, fatigue, confusion, trouble breathing, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, hallucinations, fever, loss of muscle coordination and changes in vision.
Prevention/Solution
The best bet is to prevent a diabetic coma. Since high or low blood sugar levels may not produce symptoms until severe, it is critical to test the blood regularly. Since meals, exercise and stress can all make blood sugar levels go up or down, additional testing may be necessary to see how the body is dealing with any changes to lifestyle choices. Monitoring insulin injections to avoid over or under-dosing must also be part of the plan. Taking time to check blood sugar levels often and making safe and healthy food and exercise choices can in many cases prevent serious complications.
