American Diabetes Month: Recognizing Diabetic Emergencies and When to Seek ER Care
November is American Diabetes Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes, its impact on millions of Americans, and the importance of managing the disease to prevent life-threatening emergencies. At Prestige ER, we want to emphasize the crucial information around diabetic emergencies, how they happen, warning signs, and when it’s essential to seek emergency medical care.
Prestige ER is proud to join the American Diabetes Association and other organizations in educating our communities on diabetes, its potential complications, and what to do in case of a diabetic emergency.
Diabetes in the United States: Statistics at a Glance
- 37.3 million Americans (11.3% of the population) have diabetes, and 1 in 5 don’t know they have it.
- Over 96 million American adults have prediabetes.
- The risk of complications, including heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness, rises without proper management.
- Diabetic emergencies are a leading cause of ER visits, emphasizing the need for awareness, prevention, and immediate intervention when necessary.
Types of Diabetic Emergencies
Understanding the types of diabetic emergencies is essential to know when to take action:
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): Most common in Type 1 diabetes, DKA occurs when the body runs out of insulin, leading to dangerously high blood sugar and acid buildup in the blood. Symptoms include extreme thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, and confusion.
- Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS): Predominantly affecting those with Type 2 diabetes, HHS is marked by very high blood glucose without the presence of ketones. It can lead to severe dehydration, neurological symptoms, and, if untreated, coma.
- Severe Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, often due to excess insulin or inadequate food intake, can cause symptoms like shakiness, sweating, confusion, seizures, and unconsciousness. Severe hypoglycemia can be life-threatening without prompt treatment.
Causes and Prevention
Diabetic emergencies can often be prevented with proper management and understanding the triggers:
- Diet and Medication Management: Ensuring a balanced diet and timely medication can prevent spikes or drops in blood sugar.
- Hydration: Proper hydration can reduce the risk of DKA and HHS.
- Regular Monitoring: Using a glucose monitor to track blood sugar levels and maintaining a consistent routine helps avoid sudden fluctuations.
- Recognizing Stress Triggers: Physical and emotional stress can increase blood sugar, necessitating close monitoring and adjustment of medication.
How Common and Serious is Diabetes?
The National Diabetes Statistics Report produced the following key findings:
- 34.2 million Americans have diabetes
- 88 million American adults have prediabetes
- New diagnosed cases of type 1 and type 2 diabetes among US youth is on the rise
Diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to severe complications that may result in disability or even death.
Possible complications from diabetes include:
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Nerve Damage
- Kidney Damage
- Eye Damage
- Skin Conditions
- Hearing Impairment
- Increased Risk of Dementia
- Depression
Warning Signs to Seek Emergency Care
Knowing the warning signs of a diabetic emergency can be life-saving. Seek immediate help at Prestige ER if you or someone you know experiences:
- Persistent high blood glucose readings (300 mg/dL or higher)
- Symptoms of dehydration, including extreme thirst, dry mouth, and confusion
- Persistent nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain (signs of DKA)
- Extreme drowsiness, confusion, or unresponsiveness
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Any signs of severe hypoglycemia, including confusion, blurred vision, or seizures
Your Health Is Our Priority at Prestige ER
During American Diabetes Month, we encourage everyone to stay informed about diabetes management and recognize the signs of a diabetic emergency. If you or a loved one experiences any symptoms or if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate—visit Prestige ER, where our dedicated medical team is ready 24/7 to provide the care you need. Early intervention can make a difference in preventing severe complications and safeguarding your health.
