What causes a diabetic coma?

A diabetic coma can occur when there are significant imbalances in blood sugar levels, specifically due to too little insulin or an excessively high sugar level in the bloodstream. In individuals with diabetes, insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy. When there is insufficient insulin, either because of missed doses or the body’s inability to produce enough insulin, glucose remains in the bloodstream, leading to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). This condition can cause severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and ultimately a diabetic coma if not addressed.

In addition, factors such as chronic high sugar intake can exacerbate this condition by consistently pushing blood sugar levels higher. Conversely, the other options like excessive exercise, a high-fiber diet, and regular eating habits do not typically contribute to a diabetic coma in the same way. While excessive exercise can lead to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and dietary choices impact blood sugar levels differently, they are not direct causes of diabetic coma when properly managed with insulin and dietary balance.