When to Seek Medical Care

When to call the doctor

• If you have diabetes, contact your doctor if you have very high blood sugars (generally more than 350 mg) or moderate elevations that do not respond to home treatment.

• If you have diabetes and develop a fever or start vomiting, contact your doctor for instructions.

• If you have home access to urine ketone test strips, and if urine sampling indicates moderate or greater urine ketones, notify your doctor.

People with diabetes should be taken to the hospital's emergency department if they appear significantly ill, dehydrated, confused, or very weak. Other reasons to seek immediate medical treatment include shortness of breath, chest pain, severe abdominal pain with vomiting, and high fever.