Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS)anddiabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)are two serious diabetic complications.
Both conditions cause very high blood sugar levels, but there are essential distinctions between the two.
Learn more about the differences between HHS and DKA, including the symptoms, causes, and diagnosis.
Maskot / Getty Images
This article will also discuss HHS and DKA treatment and prevention.
Maskot / Getty Images
Symptoms
The symptoms of HHS and DKA are very similar.
DKA tends to produce symptoms slowly, with thirst and frequent urination happening first.
If treatment does not occur, severe symptoms will quickly progress.
HHS progresses slowly over weeks.
The symptoms look like DKA but can also include neurological changes like confusion.
They both occur when insulin does not work effectively, which results in dangerously high blood sugar levels.
However, key differences between the two conditions are highlighted below.
Causes of HHS
HHS is most commonly seen in people withtype 2 diabetes.
When someone has high glucose levels, the body tries to get rid of it through the urine.
However, this causes the body to lose too much fluid.
The primary cause of HHS is infection.
Other causes of HHS include:
HHS is often considered worse than DKA due to its higher mortality rates.
Causes of DKA
DKA is typically seen in people with key in 1 diabetes.
DKA happens when insulin levels are low or nonexistent.
Without insulin, glucose cannot move into cells to provide energy and fuel.
As a result, the body breaks down fat intoketonesto use as fuel.
However, the body breaks down the fat too fast, and ketones build up in the blood.
This causes one of DKA’s most unusual symptoms,fruity-smelling breath.
Diagnosis
DKA and HHS are diagnosed in similar ways.
People with DKA have high blood glucose and dangerously low pH levels, indicating high blood acidity.
They also are positive for ketones in their urine and blood.
People with HHS tend to have much higher blood glucose levels than those with DKA.
This is why there are ketone levels are low or zero in those with HHS.
Their treatments are very similar.
Both conditions will need:
Prevention
DKA and HHS are serious conditions.
These conditions cause an unsafe high blood glucose level, dehydration, and electrolyte changes.
Those with DKA will also have high ketone levels.
Treatment must be sought quickly to prevent serious complications, which can include death.
DKA and HHS are two conditions that can be brought on by poor diabetes management.
Take your medications as prescribed and talk to your healthcare provider if you become sick.
If you suspect that you have DKA or HHS, seek emergency help immediately.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Diabetic ketoacidosis.
MedlinePlus.Diabetic hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome.
2020;43(2):349-357.
Adeyinka A, Kondamudi NP.Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome.StatPearls.
