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  • Title: [Hypoglycemia in the elderly with diabetes mellitus].
    Author: Avila-Fematt FM, Montaña-Alvarez M.
    Journal: Rev Invest Clin; 2010; 62(4):366-74. PubMed ID: 21222316.
    Abstract:
    Aging is associated with an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus and its chronic and acute complications. With changes observed in diabetes mellitus treatment goals and the lower levels of glycosylated hemoglobin recommended, the prevalence of hypoglycemia especially in patients treated with insulin has increased. Aging and changes in the physiologic reserves generate a decreased perception of symptoms associated with hypoglycemia, increasing the risk of unawareness or severe episodes. Traditionally, age was a risk factor for hypoglycemia, but in the population over 60 years, multiple comorbidities like chronic heart failure, malnutrition and renal failure are associated with increased risk of developing this acute complication. It is necessary to train doctors and nurses from all levels of care to recognize the specific clinical manifestation of low blood glucose that allow early detection and treatment, because this complication is associated with an increased hospital and 1-year after discharge mortality, with falls and cognitive impairment that directly affect the independence and functionality of older persons.
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