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Signs and Symptoms of Diabetic Shock

Diabetic shock is a serious medical condition affecting persons with diabetes. It occurs when blood sugar levels are too low, usually lower than 50 mg/dl. This can result from too much insulin via an injection or oral dosage. It can also be brought on by emotional or stress reactions. Diabetic shock is more common in people with severe cases of diabetes.

  1. Possible Causes

    • Possible causes include late or missed meals, increase or error in daily insulin injections, drinking alcohol without eating, eating fewer carbohydrates than usual or an increased amount of daily activity.

    Symptoms and Signs

    • Mild symptoms of diabetic shock may include increased warmth or hunger at unusual times.

      Symptoms for more moderate attacks range from trembling and sweating, to increased heart rate and severe headaches.

      Severe symptoms include dizziness, difficulty concentrating, hyperactive behavior, unconsciousness and seizures.

    Treatment

    • Raising blood sugar levels in persons with diabetic shock needs to be accomplished as quickly as possible. For milder symptoms, this can be as easy as giving someone a piece of hard candy or a glass of fruit juice. In these cases, there should be an improvement in blood sugar levels within 10-15 minutes.

      ***It is important to note that sugar should never be given directly to someone in diabetic shock, as it is not absorbed by the stomach and must be digested.

      More moderate to severe symptoms can be treated with glucose tablets or absorbable sugar wafers. Liquid or solids should never be given to a person who is unconscious, as this could make them vomit and choke. If unconscious, frosting or honey can be spread on the inside of the cheeks to allow for absorption. This may wake the person up enough to be able to drink or eat.

      For extremely severe symptoms such as prolonged unconsciousness or seizures, an injectable hormone, Glucagon may be given while waiting for medical help to arrive. This should only be done by persons trained in its use.

    When to Seek Medical Care

    • Repeated diabetic shock episodes, even if treatable, need to be discussed with a doctor, as adjustments in daily insulin levels may need to be made.

      Any signs and symptoms that continue after eating or drinking is an indication that emergency care should be sought.

      Unconsciousness and seizures always constitute a medical emergency, and 911 needs to be called immediately.

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