A dangerously high blood sugar level is considered to be any level over 200 mg/dL. This is considered to be a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. When a person's blood sugar is too high, it can lead to several serious health complications, including diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar non-ketotic syndrome, and coma.
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious complication of diabetes that can lead to coma and even death. It occurs when the body does not have enough insulin, causing the body to break down fat for energy instead of using glucose. This can lead to a buildup of ketones in the blood, which can cause the blood to become acidic. Symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity breath odor, confusion, and rapid breathing.
Hyperosmolar non-ketotic syndrome is another serious complication of high blood sugar. It occurs when the body does not have enough insulin and the body is unable to use glucose for energy. As a result, the body attempts to break down fat for energy, leading to a buildup of ketones in the blood. This can cause the blood to become too thick, leading to dehydration, confusion, and seizures.
Coma is another possible complication of high blood sugar levels. When a person's blood sugar level is too high, it can cause the body to become dehydrated, leading to a decrease in blood flow to the brain. This can cause a person to become unconscious and unable to respond to stimuli.
A dangerously high blood sugar level is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar non-ketotic syndrome, and coma. It is important to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and to seek medical help if your levels are higher than normal.