17. Nonketotic Hyperosmolar Coma
This condition presents quite similarly to ketoacidosis but is not caused by low levels of insulin. When blood glucose levels reach 300mg/dl, the sugar in the blood pulls water from the cells in an attempt to dilute the blood. However, this increase in water in the blood forces the kidney to work harder, excreting the excess water via the urine. When the elevated blood sugar levels is left untreated, this process is repeated until the body becomes severely dehydrated, causing loss of blood pressure and electrolytes, leading to heartbeat abnormalities, shock, coma and then death. This condition is more common in Type 2 diabetes.
