The Doctors Lounge - Endocrinology Answers: Question: Diabetic Coma

The Doctors Lounge - Endocrinology Answers: Question: Diabetic Coma
Doctors Lounge

Hi! Last night I had the unfortunate event of falling into a diabetic coma. I've taken steps to prevent this from happening again. My question is how long would a person have to be in a diabetic coma before death occurs? Because last night certainly felt like a near death experience. It's one question I forgot to ask my Dr. A word of advice to anyone who has Diabetes, Type @. Get an emergency kit, otherwise, if you have a coma, you'll need a paramedic to bring you back to consiousness.
TY!
Chris in Philly, PA
Theresa Jones, RN - Sun Jan 22, 2006 4:19 pm

Hi phillyc,
Diabetic Ketoacidosis is a serious condition that can lead to a diabetic coma. Ketoacidosis typically evolves slowly but can become lifethreatening in a matter of only a few hours. There are warning signs that should be paid attention to, for example,
Thirst or a very dry mouth, frequent urination, high Blood glucose (sugar) levels, high levels of ketones in the urine.
Next, other symptoms appear
Constantly feeling tired, flushed skin.
A hard time breathing (short, deep breaths), fruity odor on breath, confusion. Nausea, Vomiting, (if Vomiting continues for more than 2 hours, contact your health care provider).
Hypoglycemia (low Blood sugar) may also result in coma. Again there are warning signs of hypoglycemia, sweating, Nausea, dizziness, tremors/shakiness, confusion, Seizure, etc. When any of the symptoms or warning signs become apparent of either of the above conditions test your glucose levels and yes it's wise to keep an emergency kit available.
Sincerely,
Theresa Jones, RN