hyperosmolar state

a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (hhs) develops when a person with type 2 diabetes has very high blood sugar—usually 34.0 millimoles per litre (mmol/l) or more. sometimes this condition is the first time a person learns that they have type 2 diabetes.

a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state can develop when a person is very sick and/or dehydrated, such as from the flu, a severe infection, a heart attack, or water pills (diuretics). if the person does not drink enough liquids, they may become confused. older people are at increased risk for developing a hyperosmolar state.

symptoms of a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state include:

increased urination for several days.
dehydration, which develops because the person doesn't drink enough liquids.
a change in alertness from generalized fatigue to stupor, coma, or seizures. these changes may be mistaken for a stroke or mental illness.

hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state is treated in a hospital with insulin to reduce the blood sugar level and extra fluids through a vein (i.v.) to replace the lost fluids.

the best way to prevent a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state is to treat high blood sugar levels early and drink enough liquids.

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hyperosmolar state

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