title: Hyperglycemia and what to do about it.
abstract: Diabetes mellitus is on incredibly complex disease and impacts millions of Americans. The pancreas and insulin are both key to normal glucose metabolism and glucose control.Nearly any body stressor that alters a patient's metabolism can impair normal insulin function and trigger hyperglycemia. It is prudent to check blood sugar in all patients with suspected serious illness, whether or not they have diabetic histories. Hyperglycemia can affect any patient and is a predictor of increased mortality if not treated early. Diabetic ketoacidosis has a more rapid onset than a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state and often presents with a comparatively lower blood sugar and the presence of acidosis. HHS does not present with profound acidosis and has a slower onset, yet more profound dehydration and a higher blood sugar. Do not underestimate the need for early prehospital intervention with hyperglycemia. Early and aggressive IV fluid administration can improve patient outcomes and speed recovery.
authors.affiliation: Vitalink/Airlink, Wilmington, NC, USA. kcollopy@colgatealumni.org
authors.forename: Kevin T
authors.initials: KT
authors.lastname: Collopy
authors.forename: Sean M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Kivlehan
authors.forename: Scott R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Snyder
mesh_terms: D016883:Diabetic Ketoacidosis / Q000209:etiology; D018450:Disease Progression; D004630:Emergencies; D006801:Humans; D006943:Hyperglycemia / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D014481:United States