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Prevention
By Mayo Clinic staffGood day-to-day control of your diabetes can help you prevent diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome. Keep these tips in mind:
- Know the symptoms of high blood sugar. Be alert for the warning symptoms of high blood sugar, as well as the situations that put you at risk of developing hyperosmolar syndrome, such as an infection.
- Follow your meal plan. Consistent snacks and meals can help keep your blood sugar level steady.
- Keep an eye on your blood sugar level. Blood sugar monitoring can tell you whether you're keeping your blood sugar level in your target range — and alert you to dangerous highs, especially if you have an infection. Ask your doctor how often you should test your blood sugar.
- Take your medication as directed. If you have frequent episodes of high blood sugar, let your doctor know. He or she may need to adjust the dosage or timing of your medication.
- Exercise regularly. Regular physical activity can help keep your blood sugar levels from going too high. Talk with your doctor before beginning any exercise plan, but for most people, experts recommend 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise a week — about 30 minutes a day.
- Educate your loved ones, friends and co-workers. Teach loved ones and other close contacts how to recognize early signs and symptoms of blood sugar extremes — and how to summon emergency help should you pass out.
- Wear a medical ID bracelet or necklace. If you're unconscious, the ID can provide valuable information to your loved ones, co-workers and others — including emergency personnel.
- Stay up-to-date on your vaccinations. Be sure to get an annual flu shot, and ask your doctor if you need the pneumococcal vaccine, which protects against some forms of pneumonia.
References
- Kitabchi AE, et al. Hyperglycemic crises in adult patients with diabetes (Consensus statement). Diabetes Care. 2009:32;1335.
- Masharani U. Diabetes mellitus and hypoglycemia. In: McPhee SJ, et al. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment. 49th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2010. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=15524. Accessed Jan. 26, 2010.
- Masharani U, et al. Pancreatic hormones and diabetes mellitus. In: Gardner DG, et al. Greenspan's Basic and Clinical Endocrinology. 8th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2007. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2633151. Accessed Jan. 26, 2010.
- Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome (HHNS). American Diabetes Association. http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/hyperosmolar-hyperglycemic.html. Accessed Jan. 29, 2010.
- Kitabchi AE, et al. Clinical features and diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 18, 2010.
- Stoner, G. Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. American Family Physician. 2005;71:1723.
- Standards of medical care in diabetes, 2010. American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care. 2010;33(suppl):11.
- Collazzo-Clavell ML (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 1, 2010.
- Rosenow E (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 31, 2010.
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