Ketoacidosis: What Is It and What Causes It?

Ketoacidosis (also referred to as diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA) is a serious medical condition that can occur in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes. The condition occurs when the body is not producing enough insulin to process glucose in the blood stream. As a result, the body begins to break down fat for energy and begins to produce compounds known as ketone bodies, which are acidic compounds that can build up in the bloodstream. Ketoacidosis can be a life-threatening condition if left untreated.

The Symptoms of Ketoacidosis

Ketoacidosis usually occurs in people with type 1 diabetes, and individuals can experience a variety of symptoms including: excessive thirst and urination, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and fruity-smelling breath. If left untreated, an individual can slip into a coma or experience difficulty breathing. As such, if any of these symptoms are present, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Ketoacidosis Treatment

If an individual is suspected to have ketoacidosis, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Treatment for ketoacidosis will typically include the administration of fluids, electrolytes and insulin. The individual may need to stay overnight in a hospital or medical facility for close monitoring and treatment. During this period, it is important to monitor and regulate blood-sugar levels to make sure they remain within healthy, safe levels.

In addition to medical treatments, individuals with diabetes and ketoacidosis can also practice healthy lifestyle habits and take precautionary measures to avoid future ketoacidosis. Such measures include regular spouts of exercise throughout the week, strict blood-sugar monitoring, adherence to recommended insulin dosing, as well as following a healthy, balanced diet. By implementing these important lifestyle and health measure, individuals with diabetes can reduce their risk of developing ketoacidosis in the future.

Overall, ketoacidosis is a serious medical condition that can be life-threatening if not properly attended to. It is important to seek medical attention if any of the symptoms of ketoacidosis are present, and to practice healthy lifestyle habits in order to avoid triggering the condition in the future.