Hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar non-ketotic coma is a dangerous condition brought on by very high blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes (above 33 mmol/L).
Hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar non-ketotic coma is a short term complication requiring immediate treatment by a healthcare professional.
Symptoms of HONK
Before loss of consciousness and coma takes place, patients will display signs of very high blood sugar levels which may include:
- Extreme thirst
- Frequent need to urinate
- Disorientation
- Nausea
The condition of very high blood glucose without signs of ketosis may also be known as Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State (HHS).
Causes of HONK
Causes of hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar non-ketotic coma may include undiagnosed type 2 diabetes that has been developing over a number of years.
Alternatively, HONK could be brought on by diabetic medication not being taken or very high blood glucose resulting from a period of illness
Treatment for HONK
Treatment for hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar non-ketotic coma will include fluids being given to the patient and insulin administered intravenously.
HONK and type 2 diabetes
Hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar non-ketotic coma is coma resulting from very high blood glucose levels in a patient with normal ketone levels.
If very high blood glucose levels are combined with high ketone levels, the state is likely to be ketoacidosis
