Diabetic coma is a state of unconsciousness that can put a patient at risk of brain damage or even death. It is triggered by either persistent and extreme elevations in glucose (blood sugar) levels (hyperglycemia) or abnormally low glucose levels (hypoglycemia).

A person in a diabetic coma is still breathing but has impaired brain function that keeps the individual unconscious and unable to communicate. Prompt treatment is necessary to prevent long-term, irreversible damage and return the individual to consciousness. In rare cases, delayed treatment can result in death. In some cases, patients will emerge from the coma and make varying degrees of recovery. Some will have permanent brain damage, but others will recover completely. In general, the longer patients are in a comatose state, the more likely they are to suffer severe, permanent brain damage or death.

Controlling glucose is the best way to prevent diabetic coma. Patients should consult with a physician about their appropriate glucose level and closely monitor this level to make sure it is not too high or too low. Changes in diet, exercise and medication may be necessary to manage glucose. A sick-day plan devised by a physician can also help prevent diabetic coma.