Describe hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome of type 2 diabetes

Answer 1

The hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome is a condition of severe hyperglycemia and dehydration that develops in the absence of significant ketosis. The condition often evolves slowly, over one week or longer. It is usually precipitated by a serious illness or infection that worsens hyperglycemia and results in substantial fluid losses due to polyuria or diarrhea; in addition, the patient is unable to recognize thirst or replace fluids adequately due to age, illness, sedation, or incapacity. The profound dehydration that eventually develops exacerbates the rise in blood glucose levels, which often exceed 600 mg/dL and may climb above 1000 mg/dL. Blood plasma may become so hyperosmolar as to cause neurological abnormalities, confusion, speech or vision impairments, muscle weakness, abnormal reflexes, and seizures; about 10 percent of patients lapse into coma.