MedTerms Medical Dictionary

Diabetic coma: Coma in a diabetic due to the buildup of ketones in the bloodstream. Ketones are a product of metabolizing (using) fats rather than the sugar glucose for energy.

The best approach to diabetic coma is prevention. Careful diet, medication, and insulin dosing as needed should prevent ketone build-up.

Patients with diabetes and their family members should be aware of the early signs of ketone build-up. These include weight loss, nausea, confusion, gasping for breath, and a characteristically sweet, chemical odor similar to that of acetone or alcohol ("acetone breath") to the patient's breath and sometimes sweat. Diabetic coma may be presaged (heralded) by confusion and convulsions.

Immediate emergency medical treatment is needed in a hospital setting for patients who show the early signs of incipient diabetic coma.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Find a medical definition by using the A-Z listing (select a letter)

Copyright © 1996-2003 MedicineNet, Inc. All rights reserved.
MedicineNet, Inc. does not endorse any of the services or products offered on this page.

Information in the MedTerms Medical Dictionary is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should carefully read all product packaging. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.

Use the A-Z listing (select a letter) to find a definition

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z