Treatment

Diabetic coma requires emergency medical treatment. The type of treatment depends on whether your blood sugar level is too high or too low.

High blood sugar

If your blood sugar level is too high, you may need:

• Intravenous fluids to restore water to your tissues
• Potassium, sodium or phosphate supplements to help your cells function correctly
• Insulin to help your tissues absorb the glucose in your blood
• Treatment for any underlying infections

Low blood sugar

If your blood sugar level is too low, you may be given a glucagon injection, which will cause your blood sugar level to quickly rise. Intravenous dextrose also may be given to raise blood glucose levels.