Which feature helps distinguish diabetic coma from insulin shock?

Which feature helps distinguish diabetic coma from insulin shock?

• A. Kussmaul respirations
• B. Rapid onset
• C. Flushed, warm skin
• D. Severe sweating only

Answer: (A)

Kussmaul respirations signal metabolic acidosis from diabetic ketoacidosis, which accompanies diabetic coma. The body compensates for the acidosis by breathing deeply and rapidly, a pattern that is not typical of insulin shock. Insulin shock (hypoglycemia) usually presents with abrupt onset and signs of sympathetic activation like sweating and cool, clammy skin, but not the deep, labored breathing seen in ketoacidosis. So the presence of Kussmaul respirations is the clue that points toward diabetic coma rather than insulin shock.

Kussmaul respirations signal metabolic acidosis from diabetic ketoacidosis, which accompanies diabetic coma. The body compensates for the acidosis by breathing deeply and rapidly, a pattern that is not typical of insulin shock. Insulin shock (hypoglycemia) usually presents with abrupt onset and signs of sympathetic activation like sweating and cool, clammy skin, but not the deep, labored breathing seen in ketoacidosis. So the presence of Kussmaul respirations is the clue that points toward diabetic coma rather than insulin shock.