[49F] Experiencing severe blood sugar fluctuations and respiratory symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): This is a serious complication of diabetes that occurs when your body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones. The condition develops when your body can't produce enough insulin. Some of the symptoms you've described such as extreme fluctuations in blood sugar, confusion, shortness of breath, fatigue, and frequent urination are common in DKA.

  • Treatment typically involves fluid replacement, electrolyte replacement, and insulin therapy.

• Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Syndrome (HHNS): This is a serious condition caused by extremely high blood sugar levels. The condition most commonly occurs in people with type 2 diabetes. It's often triggered by illness or infection. As with DKA, symptoms can include extreme fluctuations in blood sugar, confusion, shortness of breath, fatigue, and frequent urination.

  • Treatment typically involves fluid replacement, electrolyte replacement, and insulin therapy.

• Hypoglycemia: This condition occurs when your blood sugar (glucose) level falls too low. There are many reasons why this might happen, the most common being a side effect of drugs used for the treatment of diabetes. However, a variety of other conditions — many rare — can cause low blood sugar in people without diabetes.

  • Treatment involves quick steps to get your blood sugar level back into a normal range either with high-sugar foods or drinks or with medications.

• Panic Disorder: This is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by panic attacks and sudden feelings of terror sometimes striking repeatedly and without warning. Often mistaken for heart attacks, panic attacks cause shaking, palpitations, shortness of breath, and fear of disaster or loss of control.

  • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, medications, and self-care.

Please note that while the symptoms you're experiencing can be associated with these conditions, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your full medical history and current health status.

What you can do

1. Seek immediate medical attention. The symptoms you've described, particularly the extreme fluctuations in blood sugar, confusion, and shortness of breath, are concerning and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
2. If you're unable to seek medical attention immediately, try to stay calm and rest. Avoid any strenuous activity that could worsen your shortness of breath.
3. Keep a record of your symptoms, including when they occur, how long they last, and any potential triggers. This information can be helpful to your healthcare provider in diagnosing your condition.

What you should look out for

• If your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
• If you experience severe shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or severe headache, these could be signs of a medical emergency and you should seek immediate medical attention.
• If you notice any changes in your vision, speech, or ability to move, these could be signs of a serious condition and you should seek immediate medical attention.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.