How long can a diabetic stay in a coma?

How long can a diabetic stay in a coma?

Diabetic ketoacidosis, if it progresses and worsens without treatment, can eventually cause unconsciousness, from a combination of a very high blood sugar level, dehydration and shock, and exhaustion. Coma only occurs at an advanced stage, usually after 36 hours or more of worsening vomiting and hyperventilation.

What happens if you dont get help for diabetes?

Diabetes is a complex, chronic condition that requires consistent medical care and treatment to help control blood sugar levels. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to devastating complications, such as heart disease, nerve damage, blindness, kidney failure and amputations.

When does a person go into a diabetic coma?

Print Overview A diabetic coma is a life-threatening diabetes complication that causes unconsciousness. If you have diabetes, dangerously high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to a diabetic coma.

What can you do to prevent a diabetic coma?

You can help yourself prevent a diabetic coma by taking steps to keep your blood sugar in the target ranges. Meeting with a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) is an important part of understanding how to care for your diabetes. The CDE will help you be aware of symptoms for high and low blood sugar levels and how best to manage your condition.

What causes a person to go into coma?

Diabetic coma is mainly caused by an extremely high or low blood sugar level. Conditions include: Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome Blood sugar could be as high as 600 mg/dL. No ketones (byproducts of the breakdown of fatty acids) in urine.

What are the symptoms of diabetic coma DKA?

A blood test would also reveal higher levels of glucose in your blood stream. A urine test can also show that your glucose levels are too high. DKA causes high levels of blood glucose. The symptoms also include increased thirst and a frequent need to urinate.