Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (patient information)

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief:

What are the Symptoms of hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state

The following signs and symptoms are indicative of hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state especially in an elderly diabetic patient:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Excessive thirst
• Dry skin and mouth
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness
• Confusion, stupor that may progress to coma

What Causes Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state

Sugar which is the main source of energy for cells, needs insulin to enter inside the cells. In hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), the patient has a relative insulin deficiency. When the patient lacks enough insulin, sugar will not be able to enter inside the cell. This situation prompts the release of certain hormones that that further increase the sugar in the body. The excess sugar also leads to increase urination which causes dehydration and damage to different body organs such as the kidney. This process may be triggered in the presence of any infection, drugs or illness such as heart attack or long-standing kidneyproblems.

Who is at Highest Risk?

Elderly patients with type 2 diabetes who have decreased access to fluids or any condition that limits fluid intake are at highest risk for the hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. This condition has also been seen in type 1 diabetes, children, and young adults, but less common.

Diagnosis

• Patients with a medical history of diabetes, especially diabetes type 2 during an illness such as pneumonia, heart attack, stroke or pregnancy.
• Blood sugar level higher than 300 mg/dl.
• High plasma osmolality levels.
• Changes in the mental status of the patient may be noticeable.
• Blood sugar can be checked by simple finger stick sugar testing.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Care?

Call your health care provider if symptoms of hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state develop. If you experience either of the following symptoms, seeking urgent medical care as soon as possible:

• Vomiting or nausea
• Fatigue
• Cramps
• Decreased consciousness or mental stupor

Where to find Medical Care for (Disease name)?

Medical care for (disease name) can be found here.

Sources

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000434.htm