In type 1 and type 2 diabetics, the goal is keeping high amounts of glucose out of the bloodstream. If the level gets very high and is not corrected, they will urinate quite a lot and become dehydrated. However, they will also lose electrolytes. These are precious minerals in the body that hold an electric charge and have a variety of functions.
Definitions
The beta cells in the pancreas have the responsibility to release insulin into the bloodstream to keep glucose levels from getting too high. However, those with type 1 diabetes do not have functioning beta cells because they have been destroyed. People with type 2 diabetes have tissues that are resistant to insulin.
Electrolyte Levels in Type 1 Diabetics
A condition called diabetic ketoacidosis primarily affects type 1 diabetics much more often than type 2 diabetics. It happens when people do not have enough insulin in their bloodstream to move glucose out of circulation and into the cells. The high amount of blood glucose will lead to an increased amount of water in the bloodstream, which the kidneys remove in the urine. Along with the extra water, people also lose the electrolytes sodium and potassium.
Electrolyte Levels in Type 2 Diabetics
Type 2 diabetics are at risk of developing a condition called nonketotic hyperosmolar syndrome, also called a hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic state. This condition can develop in diabetics who have a high amount of glucose in their bloodstream, called hyperglycemia, and are extremely dehydrated. Diabetics with this disorder may have a low sodium level at first, but if the dehydration continues, they will develop an abnormally high sodium level. Potassium is usually at a normal level.
Correcting Electrolyte Levels
Diabetics in diabetic ketoacidosis will quickly need saline given to them through their veins to increase their blood pressure and to make sure the kidneys are receiving enough blood. They need insulin to lower the high level of blood glucose, but they will also need potassium to raise low levels. Some people develop low phosphate levels while being treated for this disorder and may, therefore, need phosphate as well. Likewise, those with nonketotic hyperosmolar syndrome might need saline, insulin, phosphate and potassium.
References
- "Greenspan's Basic and Clinical Endocrinology"; Drs. David Gardner and Dolores Shoback; 2007
- "Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals": Diabetic Ketoacidosis
- "The Washington Manual of Medical Therapeutics"; Dr. Gopa Green et al; 2004
