20-yr-old woman diagnosed with rare brain complication after weekly bubble tea habit

A 20‑year‑old woman in Shenzhen has been diagnosed with non‑ketotic hyperglycaemic hemichorea, a rare neurological complication of uncontrolled diabetes, after experiencing sudden involuntary, dance‑like movements and rapid weight loss.

The woman, identified by the pseudonym Liu in some reports, began experiencing uncontrollable limb movements and lost about 1 kg every two days.

Originally thinking her symptoms were related to dieting, she sought medical care only after the episodes became severe, particularly at night. 

Medical examinations revealed that she had developed a rare movement disorder linked to high blood sugar levels known as non‑ketotic hyperglycaemic hemichorea — a condition in which prolonged elevated glucose can damage neural pathways controlling movement.

Unhealthy lifestyle and high sugar intake

Reports from Chinese media indicate that Liu had no known family history of diabetes, yet her eating habits were highly irregular. She typically ate only one meal per day and consumed bubble tea at least three times per week. 

Doctors investigating her case highlighted that bubble tea and similar sugary drinks often contain very high amounts of sugar, which can put heavy strain on the pancreas and lead to blood sugar imbalances when combined with irregular eating patterns.

According to the reporting, prolonged periods without food followed by consumption of high‑sugar drinks can cause blood glucose levels to swing dramatically — a “roller‑coaster” effect that leaves the body’s metabolism struggling to cope. 

Rare complication of high blood sugar

Non‑ketotic hyperglycaemic hemichorea is considered a rare complication of poorly controlled diabetes in which elevated blood glucose damages the brain’s basal ganglia — the regions responsible for movement regulation.

While the condition is most often reported in people with long‑standing diabetes, cases can occur when very high glucose levels stress the body’s systems.

Medical literature notes that the syndrome is uncommon and typically seen in older patients with uncontrolled hyperglycaemia, though it can also present as an initial manifestation of diabetes. 

Recovery and medical warnings

After receiving treatment, the woman’s blood sugar levels have begun to stabilise, and the severity of her involuntary movements has lessened, according to follow‑up reporting. 

Doctors involved in her care and quoted in news reports have used the case to warn the public — especially young people — about the potential health risks associated with frequent consumption of high‑sugar beverages and irregular diets.

They emphasise that maintaining balanced nutrition, consistent meal patterns, and reduced sugar intake are important for metabolic and neurological health.