Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (severely elevated glucose)

About Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (severely elevated glucose)

This disorder occurs when the glucose level in the blood becomes very high, at times over 1000 mg/dl. This disorder is usually seen in Type 2 diabetics. The disease is very serious and 15% of those afflicted can die. Patients are very dehydrated and can have dangerously low blood pressures. An infection in a patient with diabetes is many times the cause although other co-existing diseases can result in the very high blood glucose levels. The disorder can occur at any age but is most commonly seen in older patients with an average age of 70. In 30% of the patients the disease is the first sign of diabetes. Patients need immediate treatment.

Symptoms

Confusion, lethargy, coma, seizures, visual problems, weakness on one side of the body, numbness on one side of the body.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical will be done. Other tests will be performed to determine the cause of the elevated glucose. Tests to look for damage to other organs such as the kidneys will be done as well.

Common tests: Arterial Blood Gas (ABG), Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG, Ketones, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

Patients require immediate treatment with intravenous fluids and insulin. Treatment of the cause of the elevated glucose such as infections need to be performed as well. Most patients require admission into an intensive care unit.

Medical specialties

Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism · Pediatric Endocrinology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (severely elevated glucose).