Diabetic ketoacidosis, also known as DKA, is a buildup of acids in your blood. It can happen when your
blood sugar is too high for too long. DKA is a serious complication of diabetes and could be life-threatening, but it usually takes many hours to become that serious. You can treat it and prevent it, too. Diabetic ketoacidosis symptoms can appear quickly and may even be your first warning sign that you have diabetes. Symptoms include: Call your doctor or go to the emergency room right away if you have any of the symptoms below and your ketones are moderate to high when you test
them using a home kit, or if you have more than one symptom: Diabetic ketoacidosis usually happens because your body doesn't have enough insulin. Your cells can't use the sugar in your blood for energy, so they use fat for
fuel instead. Burning fat makes acids called ketones. If the process goes on for a while, they could build up in your blood. That excess can change the chemical balance of your blood and throw off your entire system. People with type 1 diabetes are at risk for ketoacidosis,
since their bodies don't make any insulin. Your ketones can also go up when you: DKA can happen to people with type 2 diabetes, but it's rare. If you have type 2, especially when you're older, you're more likely to have a condition with some similar
symptoms called HHNS (hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome). It can lead to severe dehydration. Risk factors for DKA include: Test your ketones when your blood sugar is over 250 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) or you have any of the above symptoms of high blood sugar, such as
dry mouth, feeling really thirsty, or peeing a lot. You can check your sugar levels with a urine test strip. Some
glucose meters measure ketones, too. Try to bring your blood sugar down, and check your ketones again in 30 minutes. Your doctor can give you a physical exam, ask about your symptoms, and discuss your medical history. They can
order these tests to diagnose DKA too: If you don't treat ketoacidosis, you could pass out, go into a coma, and possibly die. You should go to the hospital to treat DKA. There, you will receive emergency treatments like:
Diabetic Ketoacidosis ComplicationsDKA complications are possible if you don’t have emergency treatments like electrolyte replacement and insulin. They include:
Diabetic Ketoacidosis PreventionYour doctor may change your insulin dose, or the kind you use, to prevent DKA from happening again. Good blood sugar control will help you avoid ketoacidosis in the future. Make sure you manage your diabetes through your diet, exercise, medications, and self-care. Follow these steps to help prevent DKA:
Which of the following are signs of diabetic ketoacidosis?DKA Signs and Symptoms. Fast, deep breathing.. Dry skin and mouth.. Flushed face.. Fruity-smelling breath.. Headache.. Muscle stiffness or aches.. Being very tired.. Nausea and vomiting.. What are the 3 P's in diabetic ketoacidosis?The three Ps of DKA:
Polydipsia—thirst. Polyuria—urination. Polyphagia—appetite.
Which of the following is the most common early symptom of DKA?The most common early symptoms of DKA are the insidious increase in polydipsia and polyuria. The following are other signs and symptoms of DKA: Malaise, generalized weakness, and fatigability. Nausea and vomiting; may be associated with diffuse abdominal pain, decreased appetite, and anorexia.
Which condition is also known as diabetic ketoacidosis?Diabetic ketoacidosis, also known as DKA, is a buildup of acids in your blood. It can happen when your blood sugar is too high for too long. DKA is a serious complication of diabetes and could be life-threatening, but it usually takes many hours to become that serious.
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