Diabetic Coma

Introduction

Coma may be due to a variety of causes not directly related to diabetes. Diabetic coma is a state of unconsciousness that can put a patient at risk of brain damage or even death. It is triggered by either persistent and extreme elevations in glucose (blood sugar) levels (hyperglycemia) or abnormally low glucose levels (hypoglycemia).

The Hypoglycemic States

Introduction

Hypoglycemia due to Pancreatic B cell tumors

Persistent Islet Hyperplasia(NonInsulinoma Pancreatogenous Hypoglycemia Syndrome)

Hypoglycemia Due to Extrapancreatic Tumors

Postprandial Hypoglycemia (Reactive Hypoglycemia)

Alcohol-Related Hypoglycemia

Factitious Hypoglycemia

Immunopathologic Hypoglycemia

Drug-Induced Hypoglycemia

If the glucose level is too low, the person has hypoglycemia and if the level is too high, the person has hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia is just a term for raised blood glucose but in some cases it can lead to a life-theathening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. Patients with diabetes mellitus type 1 are especially prone to this condition.

Causes for this condition vary; in the case of diabetes, it could be due to too much food too quickly or forgetting to inject oneself with insulin, while in the case of hypoglycemia it could be due to a lack of food, too much exercise for current conditions, or to an insulin or other medication overdose.

Controlling glucose is the best way to prevent diabetic coma. Patients should consult with a physician about their appropriate glucose level and closely monitor this level to make sure it is not too high or too low. Changes in diet, exercise and medication may be necessary to manage glucose. A sick-day plan devised by a physician can also help prevent diabetic coma.