What are the Causes of a Diabetic Coma?

A diabetic coma can occur when the body's blood sugar elevates and the cells within your body become dehydrated. It can become a life-threatening situation if you do not get prompt treatment. Diabetic comas are more common in people who are older than 60, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Prior to experiencing a coma, the diabetic may become overly thirsty and urinate more frequently, which can cause the body to lose water. The end result will be shock, coma, or death. There are many risk factors that can cause a coma.

Ketoacidosis

• Ketoacidosis happens when your muscle cells break down as a result of low insulin. In response, the body will break down stored supplies of fat to create energy. Toxic forms of acid known as ketones will begin to develop. If you let the condition go without treatment, you can lose consciousness. It can even lead to death.

Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Syndrome

• This type of condition occurs in people who have Type 2 diabetes. Blood sugar levels will hit high proportions (usually above 600 milligrams per deciliter). At this point your blood will become the consistency of syrup, which is exceedingly dangerous. Because of the excess sugar within your body, your body will begin to try to filter it out by excreting it into your urine. This can cause severe dehydration, which can result in coma, or even death if left untreated.

Hypoglycemia

• Your body requires glucose to function properly, especially for your brain. If your blood sugar drops drastically, you can experience syncope (fainting). If you drink too much alcohol, forget to take your insulin or don't eat regularly, you can make your blood sugar level drop. If the blood sugar level drops too low, a coma can result.

Other Causes

• Other causes of diabetic coma can include an infection (such as an illness like the flu), recent heart attack, kidney failure, medicines that interfere with your diabetes (such as steroids, diuretics, or heart medications), ulcers and blood clots.

Precautions

• If you begin to experience symptoms of extreme thirst, frequent urination, muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, mood swings, headaches, twitching, slurred speech or paralysis, seek medical attention immediately. These are warning signs that your body may be heading for a diabetic coma.

Prevention/Solution

• It is important to always keep yourself hydrated. If you use insulin, always administer it as prescribed by your doctor. Never miss your dose. Always eat regular meals. The Centers for Disease Control recommends wearing a Medic-Alert bracelet to state that you are a diabetic. This allows medical staff to treat you as a diabetic and not misdiagnose your condition.