Pronounced: KEE-toe-ass-i-DOE-sis
Ketoacidosis occurs when a person’s blood sugar (glucose) is too high because there is not enough insulin. Instead, the body starts to burn fat for energy. Fat is broken down into acids causing acid levels to build up in the blood. These acids appear in urine and blood as ketones. Ketoacidosis is a serious condition that can lead to coma or death if not treated.
This condition is most commonly found in people with type 1 diabetes and sometimes in people with type 2 diabetes .
These factors increase your chances of developing ketoacidosis. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:
If you have any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to ketoacidosis. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. But if they are sudden or new, call your doctor.
The following symptoms are very serious and require prompt medical attention by either calling 911 or having someone take you to the nearest emergency room:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include the following:
The most important treatment is insulin and fluids. Insulin, fluids, and electrolytes may be given via an IV placed in your arm or hand. Insulin may also be given as an injection under your skin.
To help reduce your chances of getting ketoacidosis, take the following steps:
RESOURCES:
American Diabetes Association
http://www.diabetes.org/
National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse
http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Diabetes Association
http://www.diabetes.ca/
Team Diabetes Canada
Canadian Diabetes Association
www.diabetes.ca/get-involved/supporting-us/team-diabetes
References:
Charfen MA. Diabetic ketoacidosis. Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2005. 23(3):609-628.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php. Updated May 25, 2010. Accessed May 25, 2010.
Trachtenbarg DE. Diabetic ketoacidosis: What it is and how to prevent it. Am Fam Physician. 2005 May1;71(9):1721-1722.
Wood D. Type 1 diabetes. EBSCO Health Library website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/thisTopic.php?marketID=15&topicID=81. Updated March 12, 2010. Accessed May 25, 2010.
Last reviewed June 2010 by B. Gabriel Smolarz, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.