Diseases & Conditions

Diabetic coma

A coma is a state of unconsciousness. A diabetic coma is a life-threatening diabetes complication.

If you have diabetes, dangerously high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to a diabetic coma. If you lapse into a diabetic coma, you're alive — but you can't awaken or respond purposefully to sights, sounds or other types of stimulation. Left untreated, a diabetic coma can be fatal.

The prospect of a diabetic coma is scary, but there's good news. The risk of a diabetic coma is small — and prevention is in your hands. Start by following your diabetes treatment plan.

A diabetic coma is a medical emergency. If you pass out, you'll need someone to request emergency medical help.

Left untreated, a diabetic coma can lead to permanent brain damage. In some cases, an untreated diabetic coma can be fatal.

Emergency treatment for a diabetic coma depends on whether your blood sugar level is too high or too low.

If your blood sugar level is too high, you may be given intravenous fluids to restore water to your tissues. You may need potassium, sodium or chlorine supplements to help your cells function correctly. When enough fluid has been replaced, short-acting insulin may be used to help your tissues absorb glucose again. Any underlying infections will be treated as well.

If your blood sugar level is too low, you may be given an injection of the hormone glucagon. The injection will cause your blood sugar level to quickly rise.

Consciousness typically returns when blood sugar reaches a normal level.