Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, is a serious condition that can occur in those with diabetes. DKA can lead to a diabetic coma or, in extreme cases, death. It is more common among people living with Type 1 diabetes, but those with Type 2 diabetes can also develop the complication.

DKA happens when ketones build up in the blood. As glucose circulates in your blood, your body’s cells use insulin to absorb it. Normally cells take in glucose as a primary energy source. But if you have diabetes your cells don’t absorb and use glucose, either because the body does not make enough insulin or the cells don’t respond to it.

Instead, the body burns fat as energy through the liver, leading to glucose buildup in the blood. The process produces ketones that can increase the acidity of your blood, which is dangerous. DKA can also affect the balance of electrolytes in the body such as potassium, sodium and bicarbonates, causing further problems.

DKA symptoms vary depending on the condition’s severity. Initial symptoms, which can appear within 24 hours, include excessive thirst and frequent urination. Left untreated, other diabetes symptoms can appear quickly.

DKA often occurs in people living with Type 1 diabetes. In rare cases, people with Type 2 diabetes can get DKA if they are under stress, sick or taking certain medications.

When to Seek Medical Help

DKA is a dangerous medical condition when left untreated. It is important to pay close attention to any severe symptoms that arise.

If you experience any of these severe symptoms — especially multiple symptoms — call your physician, get to the nearest emergency room or immediately call 911.

DKA occurs when low insulin levels in the blood cause the body to break down fat for fuel. The process occurs in the liver and produces acidic ketones. When ketones build up in the blood, they lead to DKA.

Ketone levels can be a warning sign of diabetes if you are undiagnosed. It can also be a sign that your diabetes is not under control.

Uncontrolled Type 1 diabetes can often lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. Although less common, DKA can also develop in Type 2 diabetes patients.

Knowing your risk factors can help you reduce them. And understanding your risks coupled with knowing what signs and symptoms to watch for can help ensure earlier diagnosis and treatment.

In addition to tests for diabetes, there are also tests to determine your ketone levels. Several ketone tests are available for home use. Others require seeing a health care provider.

Ketone testing methods:

Your doctor will advise when and how to test for ketones. Many specialists recommend checking ketone levels every four to six hours when you are sick or if you have a high blood sugar reading of 240 mg/dL or over.

Call your doctor if your ketone levels rise to moderate or high. Call emergency services or go to the nearest ER if you experience any severe DKA symptoms with elevated blood sugar levels.

DKA can be fatal if left untreated, and it requires hospitalization for emergency medical treatment to prevent a diabetic coma or death.

Once test results confirm the condition, treatment focuses on lowering blood sugar levels. Emergency DKA treatments include:

Always check with your physician or another medical provider if you feel your diabetes is not under control.

Managing your diabetes can significantly lower your chances of getting DKA.

Always seek medical help if you experience DKA symptoms. Talk to your doctor to receive further health information about diabetes and its associated conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis and learn how to lower blood sugar and manage the disease.