Preparing for an appointment

Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome is a medical emergency that you won't have time to prepare for.

If you have symptoms of high blood sugar, such as extreme thirst and excessive urination, for a few days, check your blood sugar level and call your doctor for advice. If you feel the symptoms of extreme high blood sugar, call 911 or your local emergency number. Don't try to drive yourself to the hospital.

If you're with someone who has diabetes and is acting confused, has one-sided weakness or has passed out, call for medical help right away.

After you've received treatment and are feeling better, some questions you might want to ask your doctor include:

• How can I better control my diabetes?
• What range does my blood sugar need to be in?
• Do I need to see a specialist?
• I have these other health problems. How can I manage them together?
• What dietary changes do I need to follow?
• Should I see a dietitian?
• Does eating a meal with a lot of sugar bring on this syndrome?
• Do I need to drink more fluids?
• Can diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome happen again?