Word parts
What it means
Describes blood or a solution that is more concentrated than normal body fluid. Water moves from where there are fewer particles to where there are more, so a hyperosmolar blood draws water out of the cells. Very high blood glucose or sodium makes the blood hyperosmolar, as in hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHSaych-aych-ES (said as letters)Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state: very high blood glucose with severe dehydration and little or no ketone buildup.Full entry ).
At a glance
| Also written | hyperosmolarity, hyperosmolal |
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Related terms
hyperglycemia
A blood glucose level above normal, over 100 mg/dL when fasting.
HHS
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state: very high blood glucose with severe dehydration and little or no ketone buildup.
hyper-
A word beginning that means above, over or more than normal.
hypernatremia
A blood sodium level above normal, over 145 mEq/L.
osmotic diuresis
An increase in urine output caused by dissolved substances in the kidney tubules that hold water with them.