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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Diseases & Conditions > Diabetic Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Coma

Diabetic Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Coma

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Alternate Names : HONK - Hyperosmolar Non-Ketotic Coma, NKHHC, Nonketotic Hyperglycemic Coma


Definition

Diabetic hyperglycemic hyperosmolar coma is a complication of type 2 diabetes that results in extremely high glucose levels without the presence of ketones (a by-product of fat, which can cause other complications).

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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Diabetic hyperglycemic hyperosmolar coma is a condition characterized by decreased consciousness, extreme dehydration (lack of water), and extremely high blood glucose (sugar) levels, which is not accompanied by ketoacidosis.

The condition is usually seen in people with non-insulin-dependent diabetes and may occur in those previously undiagnosed with diabetes or in those who have improperly managed their medications and diet. The condition may be precipitated by an infection or by certain medications that impair glucose tolerance or increase fluid loss.

Normally the kidneys compensate for high glucose levels in the blood by excreting excess glucose in the urine. However, when water is scarce, the kidneys conserve fluid and glucose levels become higher. This results in greater need for water.

Hyperosmolarity is a condition in which the blood is concentrated with sodium, glucose, and other molecules that normally attract water into the bloodstream. When the kidneys are conserving water, however, this creates a vicious cycle of increasing blood-glucose levels and increasing dehydration.

Risk factors are older age; underlying kidney insufficiency; congestive heart failure; recent discontinuation of insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents; improper management of diabetes; and a precipitating event such as infection, heart attack, stroke, or recent surgery.



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Definition
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Symptoms & Signs
Prevention
Diagnosis & Tests
Treatment
Prognosis
Complications
Calling Your Health Care Provider
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Topics that might be of interest to you

Diseases & Conditions

Dehydration
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Heart Attack
Heart Failure
Lactic Acidosis
Stroke
Type 2 Diabetes

Tests & Exams

Blood Culture
Blood Pressure
Chest X-Ray
ECG
Glucose Test
Osmolality
Pulse
Serum Sodium
Urinalysis

Other Topics

Acute
Blood Pressure - Low
Confusion
Consciousness - Decreased
Fat
Fatigue
Inability to Use Objects and Perform Tasks
Intravenous
Nausea and Vomiting
Seizures
Speech Impairment (Adult)
Thirst - Excessive
Vital Signs
Weakness

Review Date : 7/26/2002
Reviewed By : Todd T. Brown, M.D., Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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