Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis
Complications
Treatments and drugs
Prevention

Definition

You have type 2 diabetes, and you haven't been following your treatment plan. When you dig out your glucose monitor and test your blood sugar level, you discover that your blood sugar is sky high.

If your blood sugar level tops 600 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), or 33 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), the condition is known as diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome. When your blood sugar gets this high, your blood becomes thick and syrupy. The excess sugar passes from your blood into your urine, which triggers a filtering process that draws tremendous amounts of fluid from your body.

Left untreated, diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome can lead to life-threatening dehydration. Prompt medical care is essential.

Symptoms