Acute Complications of Diabetes Mellitus-A Clinicians Experience

Abstract

Acute complication of diabetes pose a serious threat to life in patients of Diabetes Mellitus. There are two types, Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) which is more prevalent in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS) which is more common in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The usual Precipitants of these are non compliance, infection, stroke. Clinical features supported by laboratory investigations usually makes the diagnosis. The management is by fluids, Insulin and electrolyte correction.

There are two main types of acute complications of Diabetes Mellitus

1.Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)-Usually occurs in Type 1 DM but also occurs in Type 2.

2.Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS)-primarily seen in individuals with type 2 DM.

Absolute or relative insulin deficiency, volume depletion and acid-base abnormalities are present in both.