Hyperosmolar syndrome

Hyperosmolar syndrome or diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome is a medical emergency caused by a very high blood glucose level.

The prefix "hyper" means high, and "osmolarity" is a measure of the concentration of active particles in a solution, so the name of the syndrome simply refers to the high concentration of glucose in the blood.

Signs & symptoms
Hyperosmolar syndrome may take a long duration - days and weeks - to develop. However, certain signs and symptoms may indicate that such a condition is developing. Some of the signs include the following:


 * 1) Excessive thirst despite frequently taking water / other liquids
 * 2) Continued high level of blood sugar
 * 3) Dry and/ or parched mouth
 * 4) Frequency of urination increases
 * 5) Pulse rate becomes rapid
 * 6) Shortness of breath with exertion
 * 7) Skin becomes dry and warm and there is no sweating
 * 8) Sleepiness and/ or a condition of confusion