High blood sugar levels are a defining characteristic of diabetes, a chronic illness. Millions of individuals worldwide are impacted by it, and complications must be managed carefully. Diabetes sufferers frequently wonder if their condition poses a threat to their life, particularly at night. This article will investigate the query can diabetes kill you in your sleep? and offer insightful information.
Understanding Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common kind of diabetes. It happens when the body stops producing enough insulin which is needed for a body for proper blood sugar levels, or when the body develops insulin resistance. Glucose may enter cells and be utilized for energy or fuel due to the hormone insulin. High blood sugar levels result from an accumulation of glucose in the bloodstream in the absence of normal insulin activity.
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Can Diabetes Kill You In Your Sleep?
Diabetes can lead to fatal complications during sleep if blood sugar levels drop dangerously low, a condition called hypoglycemia. Untreated, it can cause confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Vigilant blood sugar management and having emergency treatments on hand are crucial for reducing these risks.
One study done by Dr. Siawchwin Lee, FRACGP, BM (Soton) Written by HealthMatch can answer this question.
This study aimed to see that Type 2 diabetes poses significant health risks, including premature death from complications such as heart disease and stroke. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to life-threatening emergencies like diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic states. However, with proper management, including lifestyle changes and medications, these risks can be minimized.
For those with type 2 diabetes, prioritizing healthy habits and medical guidance is key. Understanding the condition, making lifestyle changes, and following treatments diligently can help minimize complications and enhance overall well-being. With proactive steps, living well despite diabetes is within reach.
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Complications of Type 2 Diabetes
There are a lot of complications associated with type 2 diabetes and we will discuss here all these complications here So Let’s Get Started.
Can Type 2 Diabetes Kill You?
Diabetes may not necessarily be a direct cause of mortality or death, but uncontrolled or improperly treated diabetes can result in serious complications that can be fatal. Effective management of diabetes through a mix of dietary changes, medication, and routine monitoring is the key to avoiding disastrous outcomes.
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Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
DKA is a potentially fatal side effect of diabetes that mostly affects people with type 1 diabetes, while it can also happen to those with type 2 diabetes in some conditions it means it doesn’t matter whether a person has type 1 diabetes or type 2 there is always changes of diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA). It happens when there is a lack of insulin in the body, which forces the body to burn fat for energy. Byproducts of this process include ketones, which can accumulate in the blood and cause acidity. DKA is characterized by abnormally high levels of thirst feel dry mouth and urge to drink water again and again, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, and confusion.
Explore this study on diabetic ketoacidosis: Diabetic ketoacidosis ↗
Is Diabetic Coma or DKA Painful?
Since the sufferer is typically unconscious or in a severely altered state of consciousness, a diabetic coma itself may not be painful. The body is in a condition of extreme imbalance during a diabetic coma, such as when HHS has dangerously high blood sugar levels or when DKA has both high blood sugar and ketone accumulation.
What Should I Do If Someone Goes Into A Diabetic Coma?
Acting swiftly is essential if you have reason to believe that someone has entered a diabetic coma. Take these actions:
- Make an urgent medical aid call: Call the emergency number for your nation (for example, 911 in the US) to report the issue. Give them complete details about the patient’s health and let them know you think they might be in a diabetic coma.
- Never attempt to provide something orally: It’s crucial to refrain from giving the person anything to eat or drink since they might have trouble swallowing and choking could result.
- Monitor vital signs: Watch the patient’s vital signs, such as their respiration and pulse, while you wait for medical assistance to come. Perform CPR if you are qualified to do so if they cease breathing or their heart stops.
- Reassure and comfort the individual: Stay by the individual and offer reassurance and solace. Speak to them in a soothing and calm tone whether they are conscious or semi-conscious.
- Do not try to administer insulin: Unless you are a skilled medical practitioner, avoid attempting to administer insulin to the patient. It might be harmful to administer insulin incorrectly without adequate monitoring.
Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS)
Another severe complication of diabetes is HHS, which mainly affects older people with type 2 diabetes. It develops when severe dehydration results from excessively high blood sugar levels. HHS, in contrast to DKA, typically does not entail the presence of ketones. Extreme thirst, dry lips, weakness, confusion, convulsions, and even coma are just a few of the symptoms. HHS is a medical emergency that needs to be treated right away.
Explore this study on hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome: Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Syndrome ↗
What Is Dead In Bed Syndrome?
A tragic event known as “Dead in Bed Syndrome” occurs when people with type 1 diabetes are discovered dead in their beds, seemingly from natural causes. Despite being uncommon, this condition has been documented in medical literature. It is significant to note that Dead in Bed Syndrome is not a recognized medical term and lacks a standard definition.
Although the precise etiology of Dead in Bed Syndrome is unknown, research is still being done to identify potential risk factors. It is thought to be connected to the development of severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when sleeping, which can be fatal if untreated quickly.
Explore this study on Dead-In-Bed syndrome in young diabetic patients: Dead-in-bed syndrome in young diabetic patients ↗
What Causes Dead In Bed Syndrome?
Severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) during sleep is one of the main causes thought to be at play.
Dead in Bed Syndrome may be exacerbated by a number of causes, including acute hypoglycemia during sleep:
- Poor awareness of hypoglycemia: Some diabetics may not be aware of their poor awareness or not awareness at all of the hypoglycemia, which prevents them from recognizing the warning signals of dangerously low blood sugar. And due to a lack of awareness people ignore warning signs. This can increase the risk of severe episodes by delaying the diagnosis and treatment of hypoglycemia.
- Nocturnal hypoglycemia: Hormonal changes that occur while a person is sleeping may increase their susceptibility to nighttime hypoglycemia. Sleep may impair the body’s natural blood sugar-raising counter-regulatory systems, increasing the probability of hypoglycemia.
- Intensive insulin therapy: Those who need extensive insulin therapy, which entails strict glucose regulation with several daily injections or an insulin pump, may be more susceptible to hypoglycemia. Unintentional episodes of low blood sugar can occasionally be the result of the exact balancing act necessary for optimal insulin management.
- Insufficient monitoring: Inadequate blood sugar monitoring can make it difficult to identify hypoglycemia and treat it as soon as possible. It may be hard to recognize and treat low blood sugar levels during the night without routine monitoring or the use of continuous glucose monitoring equipment.
Explore This Study To Maintain Blood Sugar Levels By Adding This Diet Plan: The 8 Week Blood Sugar Diet : What’s The Benefits?
The likelihood of suffering severe episodes and the potential problems related to Dead in Bed Syndrome can be reduced in people with type 1 diabetes by taking measures to prevent and manage hypoglycemia.
FAQs
Can diabetes kill you instantly?
Although diabetes itself may not immediately kill a person, complications brought on by uncontrolled diabetes can be fatal if ignored or improperly managed.
How can I lower my risk of developing type 2 diabetes?
A balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and routine checkups to monitor your health can all help to lower your risk.
Is type 2 diabetes reversible?
Type 2 diabetes cannot be cured, but with lifestyle changes, medicine, and insulin therapy, it can be effectively treated and controlled.
Can type 2 diabetes be prevented?
Yes, by leading a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a well-balanced diet, type 2 diabetes can be avoided or postponed.
How long can a diabetic live?
Life expectancy varies based on factors like age, health, and management. With proper care, many live long lives.
What 3 drinks should diabetics avoid?
Diabetics should steer clear of sugary drinks like soda, sweetened fruit juice, and flavored coffee beverages.
What are the 4 stages of diabetes?
Diabetes isn't staged like cancer but categorized into type 1, type 2, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes.
Can type 2 diabetes go away?
Type 2 diabetes doesn't typically disappear but can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.
What is end-stage diabetes?
End-stage diabetes refers to severe complications from long-term poor management, affecting organs and systems.
Can I live a full life with diabetes?
Yes, with proper self-care like monitoring blood sugar, diet, exercise, and medication, many lead fulfilling lives despite diabetes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, type 2 diabetes can result in serious complications that can be life-threatening even though the condition itself may not necessarily be fatal. People with diabetes must prioritize optimal treatment through dietary changes, medication, and routine monitoring. They can reduce the chance of issues and live better lives by doing this.
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