How To Treat And Prevent Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Syndrome
Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome, also known as hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome, nonketotic hyperosmolar syndrome, and diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome, is a severe complication of diabetes. The condition most often affects type 2 diabetes patients and typically develops after an illness or infection. Older patients are particularly at risk, and the condition is characterized by extremely elevated levels of blood glucose. Patients may also experience severe dehydration, vision loss, fever, dry mouth, confusion, and drowsiness. Some patients may lose consciousness, have seizures or hallucinations, or fall into a diabetic coma. If left untreated, hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome can be fatal. The syndrome usually develops slowly over several weeks. A diagnosis can be confirmed with blood tests, and these must show a blood glucose reading of at least six hundred mg/dL. The methods outlined below can help in the treatment and prevention of hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome.