Key Differences Between DKA and HHNS

Main Topic: Differentiating DKA and HHNS

Overview

• DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis) is more common in Type 1 Diabetes.
• HHNS (Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Syndrome) occurs in Type 2 Diabetes.

Quick Memory Aid

• Alphabetical Order: D for DKA comes before H for HHNS, similar to Type 1 (D) preceding Type 2 (H).

DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis)

• Cause: Lack of insulin production in Type 1 Diabetes.
  • The body's immune system destroys pancreas cells, leading to no insulin and thus no sugar in cells.
  • The body burns fat for fuel, producing ketone bodies.
  • Ketone Bodies: Acidic waste products, leading to acidosis.

HHNS/HHS (Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Syndrome)

• Characteristics:
  • Hyperglycemic: High blood sugar levels.
  • Hyperosmolar: Very thick, dehydrated blood.
  • Nonketonic: No ketones produced.
  • Syndrome: Collection of symptoms.
• Cause: Partial insulin function in Type 2 Diabetes.
  • The body burns glucose instead of fat, preventing ketone production.

Onset and Management

• DKA:
  • Faster onset.
  • Easier to fix due to younger patient age.
• HHNS:
  • Slower onset.
  • Harder to fix due to older patient age.

Causes and Triggers

• DKA:
  • Mnemonic: Three S’s
    • Sepsis: Infection is the top cause.
    • Stress: Physical/emotional stress like surgery.
    • Skipping Insulin: Common in Type 1 during illness/surgery.
• HHNS:
  • Often triggered by illness and infections in older patients.

Conclusion

• Key differences in DKA and HHNS lie in insulin levels, patient age, and symptoms.
• For further learning and quizzes, viewers can access the free trial linked in the video.