Final answer:
The characteristic clue of severe hyperglycemia is the presence of ketoacidosis, which is a serious complication of diabetes that results in an acidic blood condition. Symptoms of severe hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis include deep, rapid breathing, fruity-smelling breath, dry skin and mouth, flushed face, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristic clue of severe hyperglycemia is the presence of ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis is a serious complication of diabetes that occurs when the body doesn't have enough insulin to process glucose properly and begins to break down fat for energy. This leads to the production of ketones, which cause the blood to become acidic.
Some symptoms of severe hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis include deep, rapid breathing, fruity-smelling breath, dry skin and mouth, flushed face, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms are present.