Medical Emergencies · single question
A patient presents diaphoretic (sweating) and is about to convulse. What is the most likely emergency condition?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Hypoglycemia
D) Hypoglycemia — CORRECT.
Diaphoresis + impending convulsion (seizure) in a dental patient = hypoglycemia until proven otherwise. Classic signs of hypoglycemia: diaphoresis, pallor, trembling, confusion, altered consciousness, and seizures in severe cases. The adrenergic response to low blood sugar causes sweating and neuroglycopenic effects cause seizures.
A) Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): Develops over hours/days, not acutely in the dental chair; presents with dehydration, Kussmaul breathing, fruity breath — not primarily diaphoresis and convulsions.
B) Anaphylaxis: Involves urticaria, bronchospasm, hypotension, angioedema — not primarily diaphoresis + convulsions.
C) Respiratory alkalosis: From hyperventilation — causes tingling, carpopedal spasm, lightheadedness — not diaphoresis and convulsions.
Diaphoresis + impending convulsion (seizure) in a dental patient = hypoglycemia until proven otherwise. Classic signs of hypoglycemia: diaphoresis, pallor, trembling, confusion, altered consciousness, and seizures in severe cases. The adrenergic response to low blood sugar causes sweating and neuroglycopenic effects cause seizures.
A) Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): Develops over hours/days, not acutely in the dental chair; presents with dehydration, Kussmaul breathing, fruity breath — not primarily diaphoresis and convulsions.
B) Anaphylaxis: Involves urticaria, bronchospasm, hypotension, angioedema — not primarily diaphoresis + convulsions.
C) Respiratory alkalosis: From hyperventilation — causes tingling, carpopedal spasm, lightheadedness — not diaphoresis and convulsions.
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