Acute Complications of Diabetes: Symptoms and Precautions

Diabetes, mother of all diseases, is an acute health condition that requires a multi-dimensional treatment approach. And if left untreated, this condition can create life-threatening complications. Diabetics and their caretakers or loved ones must have awareness of acute complications of diabetes and their symptoms. The experts of Cgm Monitors will tell you about acute complications of diabetes with their symptoms and precautions on the basis of real expertise and research, because your care starts here.

1. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

The sugar from carbohydrates is a major source of your body’s energy. Without enough insulin, glucose can’t enter your cells for use. When your blood sugar stays high and your body doesn’t have enough insulin, it starts breaking down fats for energy. This produces ketones (acidic compounds), and if they build up in the blood, the condition is called Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA).

DKA mainly occurs in people with type 1 diabetes, but it can also affect people with type 2 diabetes during illness, severe insulin deficiency, or certain medication use.

Important: While the keto diet is popular today, it can be risky for people who do not produce enough insulin, such as those with type 1 diabetes. In these cases, ketosis can quickly turn into dangerous DKA.
Because people with type 1 diabetes depend on insulin, they are at the highest risk of experiencing DKA.

Symptoms:

• High blood sugar levels
• Dehydration in diabetes
• Fruity-smelling breath
• Rapid breathing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Altered mental status

Causes:

• Lack of insulin
• Illness or infection
• Stress or trauma

Prevention:

• Consistent insulin management
• Regular blood glucose monitoring
• Early treatment of infections or illnesses
• Staying hydrated to prevent dehydration in diabetes

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2. Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS)

HHS is another acute complication of DM, typically occurring in older adults with type 2 diabetes. Unlike DKA, HHS doesn’t involve significant ketone production but leads to extremely high blood sugar levels. The body becomes severely dehydrated, leading to an electrolyte imbalance.

Symptoms:

• Very high blood sugar levels
• Dry mouth and skin
• Confusion or altered mental status
• Seizures (in severe cases)

Causes:

• Insulin deficiency, but less than in DKA
• Dehydration in diabetes
• Infections or other illnesses

Prevention:

• Adequate hydration
• Managing blood glucose fluctuations
• Regular blood glucose checks

3. Lactic Acidosis (LA)

Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious complication often associated with the use of certain medications, especially in people with kidney problems. In this condition, the body produces too much lactic acid, leading to metabolic acidosis.

Symptoms:

• Rapid breathing
• Abdominal discomfort
• Weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Altered mental status

Causes:

• Use of medications like metformin in people with poor kidney function
• Insulin deficiency
• Sepsis or severe infections

Prevention:

• Monitoring kidney function regularly
• Avoiding medications that can contribute to lactic acidosis in high-risk individuals

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4. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar Emergency)

Hypoglycemia is one of the most common and severe hypoglycemia events that people with diabetes may face. This occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low, causing immediate symptoms that require fast action.

Symptoms:

• Shakiness
• Sweating
• Anxiety
• Altered mental status (confusion, irritability)
• Loss of consciousness in severe cases (insulin shock)

Causes:

• Too much insulin or medication
• Skipping meals
• Excessive exercise without adjusting insulin
• Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach

Prevention:

• Regular blood glucose monitoring
• Carrying quick sources of sugar (like glucose tablets or juice)
• Adjusting insulin doses to activity levels

Acute Complications of Diabetes: A Quick Overview

A user expressed their constant worry about complications on Reddit, describing their experience on it: “I’ve developed extreme anxiety about developing some form of complications from diabetes… had full blown panic attack.” It shows the significant psychological impact and anxiety that the fear of diabetes complications can have on individuals, even when physical health is stable.

How to Handle Diabetic Emergencies

While you may be managing blood sugar properly, it’s important to recognize any emergency situations and take immediate first aid. However, people using CGM sensors are advised to first take a blood glucose test using a stick, especially if the glucose levels do not match the symptoms:

1. Dealing with Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)

• Symptoms: Extreme thirst, frequent urination, dry mouth, blurry vision, and fatigue.
• Action: Check blood sugar levels and administer insulin if needed. If blood sugar remains high, seek emergency medical attention.
• Prevention: Ensure regular blood glucose monitoring and avoid long gaps without insulin or medication.

2. Managing Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

• Symptoms: Shakiness, sweating, dizziness, confusion, rapid heart rate.
• Action: As suggested by the Mayo Clinic, consume 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates (e.g., glucose tablets or juice). Recheck blood sugar after 15 minutes. If still low, repeat.
• Prevention: Keep a glucose source handy, especially during physical activity. Adjust insulin doses when needed.

Conclusion

Whether you are dealing with hyperglycemia complications or facing a low blood sugar emergency, quick action is vital. As in case of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), insulin is a life savior, any carb snack is in case of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). On top of all these cures, remember that a healthy lifestyle with balanced diet, possible with controlled carbs, daily exercise, proper sleep, and stress management are all your best friends who can help you live a healthy life even in the presence of this health condition.

Consistent monitoring and proper management can help you keep blood glucose fluctuations under control while reducing the risks of an acute diabetic crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions