Loss of blood sugar control in people with diabetes

Posted by Doctor Tran Hai Ha - Emergency Department - Vinmec Times City International Hospital

If left untreated, hyperglycemia can become severe and lead to serious complications requiring emergency care, such as a diabetic coma. In the long term, persistent, even non-severe, high blood sugar can lead to complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart.

Hyperglycemia does not cause symptoms until the glucose value is significantly increased - usually above 180 - 200 mg/dL, or 10 - 11.1 mmol/L. Symptoms of hyperglycemia develop slowly over several days or weeks. The longer the blood sugar stays high, the more severe the symptoms become.
Initial signs and symptoms
Frequent urination Increased thirst Blurred vision Fatigue Headache

The following signs and symptoms are
Fruity smelling breath Nausea and vomiting Shortness of breath Dry mouth Weakness Confusion Coma Abdominal pain

Many factors can contribute to high blood sugar, including:
Not using enough insulin or diabetes medication Not injecting insulin correctly or using expired insulin Not following your diabetes eating plan you are inactive Infection Use certain medications, such as steroids Injury or surgery Experiencing emotional stress, such as family conflicts or challenges at work

Long-term complications
Long-term complications of untreated hyperglycemia can include:
Cardiovascular disease Nerve damage (neuropathy) Kidney damage (diabetic kidney disease) or kidney failure Damage to the blood vessels of the retina (diabetic retinopathy), potentially leading to blindness Blurring of the normally clear lens of your eye (cataracts) Leg problems caused by nerves Damaged menstruation or poor blood flow can lead to serious skin infections, ulcers and, in some severe cases, amputations of the legs Bone and joint problems Tooth and gum infections Acute complications
If Blood sugar levels rise high enough or for a long time, it can lead to two serious conditions.
Diabetic ketoacidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis develops when you don't have enough insulin in your body. When this happens, sugar (glucose) can't get into your cells for energy. Your blood sugar rises and your body begins to break down fat for energy. This process produces toxic acids called ketones. If left untreated, diabetic ketoacidosis can lead to a diabetic coma and be life-threatening.
Increase blood osmotic pressure. When blood sugar is not well controlled, it causes osmotic diuresis. If left untreated, diabetic hyperglycemia can lead to dehydration and life-threatening coma.

The following suggestions can help keep your blood sugar within the target range:
Follow your diabetes meal plan. If you take insulin or oral diabetes medication, it's important that you be consistent about the amount and timing of your meals and snacks. The food you eat must be in balance with the insulin working in your body. Monitor your blood sugar. Depending on your treatment plan, you may check and record your blood glucose levels several times a week or several times a day. Careful monitoring is the only way to ensure that your blood sugar remains within your target range. Take medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Adjust your medication if you change your physical activity. Adjustment depends on the results of the blood sugar test and the type and length of the activity. Currently, Vinmec International Hospital always deploys a screening package for diabetes and dyslipidemia to help early detect pre-diabetes, accurately classify diabetes type, and develop a nutritional regimen. Monitor and minimize the risks and complications caused by diabetes.
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