Diabetes is basically when there are high blood sugar levels in the body. Diabetics are more prone to infection, illness and temperature related injuries; Diagnoses and Treatments - Environmentally Induced.
There are three main types of Diabetes:
Type 1 is when the body does not produce enough insulin. The cause is unknown.
Type 2 is when cells do not respond to insulin properly. The cause is usually due to an unhealthy lifestyle, e.g., overweight.
Gestational diabetes is when pregnant women develop a high blood glucose level.
Diabetes Maintenance:
Backup source of insulin.
Frequent munching.
Injectable glucagon.
Monitor blood sugar and keep accurate levels.
Plan meals for routine.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar, and although not as common, can also happen to non-diabetics. It can be caused by alcohol, birth defect, diabetes, excessive insulin, hormone deficiencies, infection, medications and poisons, organ failure, prolonged starvation etc.
Onset in minutes/hours.
Anxiety.
Decreased AVPU; Must Read - Immediate First Aid - Critical First Aid - Mental Status – AVPU.
Skin cool and moist.
Vitals elevated.
If unconscious, rub sugar (honey) under tongue and around gums.
Complex carbohydrates if able to eat.
Glucose solution.
Hydration if able to drink.
Hyperglycemia is excessive blood sugar, and although not as common, can also happen to non-diabetics. It can be caused by critical illness, diabetes, drugs etc.
Decreased AVPU.
Flushed, dry skin.
Fruity smell on breath.
Intense thirst.
Loss of appetite.
Nausea.
Onset in days.
Progressive dehydration; Diagnoses and Treatments - Circulatory System - Dehydration and Volume Shock – Dehydration.
Adjust insulin and diet.
Hydration.