Final answer:
A diabetic may become hyperglycemic due to not taking enough insulin, particularly in type 1 diabetes, whereas type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance where cells do not properly use insulin.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a diabetic becomes hyperglycemic, he/she may have not taken enough insulin. Hyperglycemia, which is high blood glucose levels, can occur due to various reasons. In type 1 diabetes, where the pancreas cannot make enough insulin, not taking enough insulin can directly lead to increased blood sugar levels. In type 2 diabetes, even if insulin levels are adequate, the body cells may not use it properly due to insulin resistance. Over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to serious complications, including ketoacidosis, which is an overproduction of ketone bodies.
Furthermore, apart from insulin imbalances, other factors like excess insulin antagonists, such as glucagon and epinephrine, may contribute to hyperglycemia. Type 2 diabetes accounts for approximately 95 percent of all cases and is often associated with lifestyle factors, such as poor diet and inactivity, as well as being overweight or obese.