What Is HHNC?

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic coma

(HHNC) is a misnomer because the syndrome does not always cause coma. Nonetheless, the name has stuck over the years, and HHNC remains a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, with high potential for significant morbidity and mortality.

What does Hyperosmolarity mean?

This is called hyperosmolarity. It is

a condition in which the blood has a high concentration of salt (sodium), glucose, and other substances

. This draws the water out of the body’s other organs, including the brain. Risk factors include: A stressful event such as infection, heart attack, stroke, or recent surgery.

What is HHNS?

Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome

(HHNS), also known as Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State (HHS) is a dangerous condition resulting from very high blood glucose levels. HHNS can affect both types of diabetics, yet it usually occurs amongst people with type 2 diabetes.

What is HHNC in diabetes?

Mar 24, 2008. Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HHNS) is an emergency that the diabetes mellitus (DM) patient may experience. The condition is also commonly referred to as

hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic coma

(HHNC).

What is the difference between HHS and DKA?

DKA is characterized by ketoacidosis and hyperglycemia, while

HHS usually has more severe hyperglycemia but no ketoacidosis

(table 1). Each represents an extreme in the spectrum of hyperglycemia. The precipitating factors, clinical features, evaluation, and diagnosis of DKA and HHS in adults will be reviewed here.

How is Hyperosmolarity treated?

Treatment typically includes:

Fluids given through a vein (intravenously) to treat dehydration

.

Insulin given

through a vein (intravenously) to lower your blood sugar levels. Potassium and sometimes sodium phosphate replacement given through a vein (intravenously) to help your cells function correctly.

What causes Hyperosmolarity?

Diabetic hyperosmolar (hi-pur-oz-MOE-lur) syndrome is a serious condition caused by

extremely high blood sugar levels

. The condition most commonly occurs in people with type 2 diabetes. It’s often triggered by illness or infection.

What lab test confirms HHNS?

Diagnosis. HHNS is diagnosed based on symptoms and by

measuring blood glucose levels

, which can be performed with a finger stick. A blood glucose level of 600 mg/dL and low ketone levels are the main factors for diagnosis of HHNS.

Why are there no ketones in HHS?

Serum ketones are not present because

the amounts of insulin present in most patients with type 2 diabetes are adequate to suppress ketogenesis

.

What are the warning signs of diabetic ketoacidosis?

• Excessive thirst.
• Frequent urination.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Stomach pain.
• Weakness or fatigue.
• Shortness of breath.
• Fruity-scented breath.
• Confusion.

Why is weight management so important for those with diabetes?

You’ll

have more energy

, feel better in yourself, and you’ll reduce your risk of serious complications like heart disease and stroke. And if you have type 2 diabetes, losing weight could even mean going into diabetes remission.

How are diabetes diagnosed?

How is diabetes diagnosed? Diabetes is diagnosed and managed

by checking your glucose level in a blood test

. There are three tests that can measure your blood glucose level: fasting glucose test, random glucose test and A1c test.

Why is HHS worse than DKA?

Patients with HHS have been reported to have

higher insulin concentration

(demonstrated by basal and stimulated C-peptide levels),12 and reduced concentrations of FFA, cortisol, growth hormone, and glucagon compared to patients with DKA.

What are the 4 most common leading complications of diabetes?

1. Heart disease. A diabetic has twice a non-diabetic’s likelihood of dying of heart disease, including stroke. …
2. Foot problems. Diabetes reduces circulation. …
3. Kidney disease. Diabetes is the foremost cause of kidney disease. …
4. Eye problems.

How can HHS be prevented?

1. Know the early warning signs of HHS, and don’t ignore them.
2. Check your blood sugar levels regularly, especially when you feel sick.
3. Take your prescribed medications regularly and consistently.
4. Maintain a healthy diet as recommended by your doctor.
5. Exercise regularly.

Is DKA more common in type 1 or type 2?

DKA is most common among people with

type 1 diabetes

. People with type 2 diabetes can also develop DKA. DKA develops when your body doesn’t have enough insulin to allow blood sugar into your cells for use as energy. Instead, your liver breaks down fat for fuel, a process that produces acids called ketones.