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Hyperosmolar State

A hyperosmolar state develops when a person with type 2 diabetes has very high blood sugar—usually 600 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or more. Sometimes this condition is the first time a person learns that he or she has type 2 diabetes.

A hyperosmolar state can develop when a person is very sick and/or dehydrated, such as from the flu, a severe infection, a heart attack, or water pills (diuretics). If the person does not drink enough liquids, he or she may become confused. Older people are at increased risk for developing a hyperosmolar state.

Symptoms of a hyperosmolar state include:

  • Increased urination for several days.
  • Dehydration, which develops because the person doesn't drink enough liquids.
  • A change in alertness from generalized fatigue to stupor, coma, or seizures. These changes may be mistaken for a stroke or mental illness.

Hyperosmolar state is treated in a hospital with insulin to reduce the blood sugar level and extra fluids through a vein (IV) to replace the lost fluids.

The best way to prevent a hyperosmolar state is to treat high blood sugar levels early and drink enough liquids.

Last Revised: June 29, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Jennifer Hone, MD - Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

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