What you must know about diabetic ketoacidosis.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening condition that is apparently linked to diabetes. It happens when the body cannot use sugar (glucose) as a fuel source because there is no insulin or not enough insulin. When the sugar cannot get into the cells, it stays in the blood. The kidneys filter some of the sugar from the blood and remove it from the body through urine.
Because the cells cannot receive sugar for energy, fat is used for fuel instead. When fat breaks down, waste products called ketones would most likely build up in the bloodstream. To those who have type 1 diabetes, you are more likely to have diabetic ketoacidosis.
So, what are the symptoms of Diabetic Ketoacidosis?
- High blood sugar level
- High ketone levels in the urine
- frequent urination
- extreme thirst
- nausea
- vomiting for more than 2 hours
- abdominal pain
- confusion
- breath that smells fruity
- a flushed face
- fatigue
- rapid breathing
- dry mouth and skin
When will you seek medical help?
Diabetic Ketoacidosis is a medical emergency. If you suspect this complication, immediately contact your physician or go to an emergency room.
If you have type 1 diabetes and have a glucometer reading of over 300 mg/dl, you should test your urine for ketones.
- If the results would yield moderate or high levels of ketones present, call the doctor right away.
- It is very essential to always seek medical help if you have unexplained nausea and vomiting.
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- You have multiple signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis such as: excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, fruity-scented breath and confusion.
How to prevent Diabetic Ketoacidosis?
- If you have diabetes, learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of DKA.
- Be responsible enough to properly manage diabetes by making sure that your blood sugar levels are within their normal range by checking them several times per day.
- Take your diabetes medication as directed and never skip your insulin doses
- Test your urine for ketone levels during periods of high stress or illness.
Remember: DKA can be fatal!
