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What medical emergency can occur when there is too much insulin in the body?

a) Hyperglycemia
b) Hypoglycemia
c) Diabetes mellitus
d) Diabetic ketoacidosis

User Glodos
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The medical emergency caused by too much insulin in the body is Hypoglycemia, where blood sugar levels become dangerously low. Hypoglycemia can be quickly treated by administering glucose or consuming sugar. Hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis are concerns when there is insufficient insulin, not an excess.

Step-by-step explanation:

The medical emergency that can occur when there is too much insulin in the body is b) Hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low. This can happen during insulin therapy for diabetes mellitus; if blood sugar levels remain persistently low, it suggests that the insulin dose is excessive and needs reduction. Hyperinsulinism, caused by excessive production of insulin due to conditions such as tumors of the ß-cells, also results in hypoglycemia. Symptoms may include sweating, tremors, and fainting, and immediate relief can be provided by administering glucose or consuming sugar.

Hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis are separate conditions related to insulin insufficiency or absence, which is characteristic of unmanaged Diabetes mellitus. Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels, while diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious complication where the body starts breaking down fats at an abnormal rate, leading to an accumulation of acids in the bloodstream known as ketones. This occurs most often when the body does not have enough insulin. Missing insulin doses can trigger diabetic ketoacidosis, especially in individuals with type 1 diabetes, and in some ethnic groups, it may occur more frequently.

User Bosko Skrbina
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