Final answer:
The Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS) is the diabetic emergency that comes on more slowly and is marked by symptoms of severe dehydration, including a dry mouth and excessive thirst.
Step-by-step explanation:
The diabetic emergency that comes on more slowly and is characterized by a dry mouth and thirst is known as the Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS). HHS typically develops over days to weeks and is associated with extremely high blood sugar levels without the presence of significant ketones. This condition is more common in individuals with type 2 diabetes and can be triggered by factors such as infection, illness, or poor diabetes management. The classic symptoms of HHS include severe dehydration, a dry mouth, excessive thirst, and confusion. In comparison, another similar condition, Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), typically presents more rapidly and with signs of ketoacidosis such as fruity-smelling breath, whereas Hyperglycemia and Hypoglycemia usually present with symptoms that develop more quickly than HHS but differ in their presentations.