Which of the following is a symptom of HHNK?

Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Syndrome (HHNK) is a serious condition that typically arises in individuals with type 2 diabetes and is characterized by extremely high blood sugar levels. One of the critical symptoms of HHNK is altered mental status, which occurs due to the significant increase in serum osmolarity resulting from high glucose levels. This hyperosmolar state can lead to dehydration of brain cells, affecting their function and leading to confusion, lethargy, or even coma in severe cases.

The presence of altered mental status indicates the severity of the metabolic derangement and the impact on the central nervous system. This is a crucial symptom to recognize so that timely interventions can be initiated to manage the condition and avoid further complications.

In contrast, while excessive urine output (polyuria) is common in HHNK due to osmotic diuresis caused by high blood sugar levels, it is not as critical to immediate assessment as altered mental status. Similarly, excessive sweating and severe hypoglycemia are more indicative of other conditions like hyperglycemia or insulin overdose, thus not aligning with the key symptoms of HHNK.