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Diabetic Ketoacidosis

What is Diabetic Ketoacidosis?

A complication of diabetes that occurs when the body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones.  

How does Diabetic Ketoacidosis Develop?

Diabetic Ketoacidosis develops when the body cannot produce enough insulin.  Insulin helps glucose enter the cells.  Without insulin entering the cells, the body begins to breakdown body fat as fuel.  This process leads to a buildup of acids in the bloodstream (ketones), which eventually leads to ketoacidosis.

Symptoms of Ketoacidosis

  • excessive thirst

  • frequent urination 

  • nausea and vomiting 

  • abdominal pain 

  • weakness or fatigue

  • shortness of breath

  • fruity-scented breath

  • confusion

What can cause Ketoacidosis?

  • Illness- an illness or infection in the body can cause the release of hormones such as adrenaline or cortisol.  These hormones counter the effects of insulin, which can trigger diabetic ketoacidosis.

  • Insulin therapy- missed insulin therapy can lead to too little insulin in the body, triggering ketoacidosis.

  • Trauma

  • Heart Attack

  • Alcohol or drug abuse

  • Corticosteroids and diruertics 

Risk Factors

  • Have type 1 diabetes

  • Frequently miss insulin doses

  • Have type 2 diabetes- uncommon

  • Can be the first sign that a person has diabetes .

Diagnosis

  • Blood Sugar Level

  • Ketone Level

  • Blood Acidity .

Treatment

  • Fluid Replacement 

  • Electrolyte Replacement

  • Insulin Therapy 

This  tab was created on October 16, 2016 

Last edited on October 23, 2016

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