Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is a serious complication caused by diabetes. Diabetes is a disease in which your blood sugar (glucose) levels are too high.

In HHS, your blood is too concentrated and your blood sugar is too high.

• HHS is a complication of type 2 diabetes

• You get very dehydrated, which can cause confusion, coma, seizures, and death

• Treatment is fluids in your vein and insulin

HHS is caused by very high blood sugar levels, usually in people with type 2 diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes don't usually get HHS. They may get diabetic ketoacidosis instead. The extremely high levels of blood sugar cause you to pass much more urine than usual. This causes severe dehydration and makes your blood more concentrated.

You're more likely to get HHS if you have type 2 diabetes and you:

• Are older

• Stop your diabetes medicine

• Get an infection or experience another stress to your body such as a heart attack, stroke, or surgery

• Aren't drinking enough fluids or tend not to feel thirsty

• Have kidney problems

• Take certain medicines, such as corticosteroids and diuretics

The first symptoms are:

• Urinating a lot

• Dry mouth and dry skin

• Feeling very thirsty

• Mental changes, such as confusion or extreme sleepiness

If not treated early, you may also have:

• Coma

• Seizures

Doctors may think you have HHS if you have diabetes and seem confused. They tell for sure by doing:

• Blood and urine tests

Doctors treat you in the hospital with:

• Fluids and electrolytes (minerals necessary to make your body work normally) into your vein

• Insulin into your vein

• Frequent blood tests to make sure your blood sugar and electrolytes are going back to normal

Doctors also treat whatever other problem caused the HHS.