What is the Difference Between DKA and HHNS?

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHNS) are two serious complications that can occur in people with diabetes. They share some similarities, but there are key differences between the two conditions:

1. Onset: DKA typically evolves within a few hours, whereas HHNS is much slower and occurs over days to weeks.
2. Type of diabetes: DKA usually affects people living with type 1 diabetes, whereas HHNS usually occurs in people living with type 2 diabetes.
3. Acidosis and ketone levels: One of the main distinctions between DKA and HHNS is that DKA usually results in acidosis, while HHNS has a higher blood glucose level but no acidosis.
4. Neurological symptoms: HHNS can cause hallucinations, confusion, drowsiness, loss of vision, or a coma, which are not typically present in DKA.
5. Dehydration: Both conditions result from an insulin deficiency that causes hyperglycemia and dehydration. However, the level of dehydration is generally more pronounced in HHNS compared to DKA.

Symptoms shared by both DKA and HHNS include frequent urination, high blood sugar levels, extreme thirst, nausea and vomiting, and rapid breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek emergency medical care immediately, as both conditions can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated.

Comparative Table: DKA vs HHNS

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) are two serious complications that occur due to an insulin deficiency, resulting in high blood sugar levels. Both conditions are life-threatening and require prompt treatment. However, there are key differences between DKA and HHS. Here is a comparison table of the differences between DKA and HHS:

Both conditions share some overlapping symptoms, such as frequent urination, extreme thirst, and high blood sugar levels. However, DKA usually results in acidosis, while HHS does not. The onset of DKA is typically rapid, within a few hours, whereas HHS develops more slowly over days to weeks. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of each condition and seek medical care as soon as possible to prevent complications.