DANB General Chairside Practice Test

What condition may a diabetic patient be experiencing if they show signs of perspiration, difficulty focusing, and anxiety?

1. Hyperglycemia

2. Hypoglycemia

3. Diabetic ketoacidosis

4. Insulin resistance

The correct answer is: Hypoglycemia

A diabetic patient exhibiting signs such as perspiration, difficulty focusing, and anxiety is likely experiencing hypoglycemia, which is a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels. When blood glucose drops below normal levels, the body reacts in a way that can trigger various symptoms due to insufficient energy supply to the brain and other vital organs. Perspiration can occur as the body tries to combat low blood sugar, often engaging the sympathetic nervous system, which leads to increased adrenaline and sweating. Difficulty with focus and anxiety are direct consequences of the brain not receiving enough glucose, its primary energy source. The combination of these symptoms indicates that the patient's blood sugar levels have fallen significantly, necessitating immediate attention and intervention, such as consuming fast-acting carbohydrates to raise blood sugar levels quickly. In contrast, hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels and typically presents with symptoms like increased thirst and frequent urination. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious condition usually associated with very high blood sugar levels leading to the production of ketones, and it often shows symptoms like fruity breath odor and deep, labored breathing. Insulin resistance is a different concept altogether, involving the body's inability to respond effectively to insulin, which can lead to elevated blood sugar over time but does not