Symptoms

Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome can take days or weeks to develop. Possible signs and symptoms include:

• Blood sugar level of 600 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or 33.3 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) or higher
• Excessive thirst
• Dry mouth
• Increased urination
• Warm, dry skin
• Fever
• Drowsiness, confusion
• Hallucinations
• Vision loss
• Convulsions
• Coma

When to see a doctor

Consult your doctor if your blood sugar is persistently higher than the target range your doctor recommends or if you have signs or symptoms of diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome, such as those listed above.

Seek emergency care if:

• Your blood sugar level is 400 mg/dL (22.2 mmol/L) or higher and doesn't improve despite following your doctor's instructions for treatment. Don't wait until your blood sugar is high enough to cause diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome.
• You have confusion, vision changes or other signs of dehydration.