Diabetic Ketoacidosis |
|
|
| |
DESCRIPTION
|
|
Ketoacidosis (KEY-toe-ASS-ih-DOE-sis) is one of the many dangerous complications of diabetes. The problem develops when the body is unable to get enough energy from blood sugar and begins to use fat. As a byproduct of this process, chemicals called ketones flood the bloodstream. Together with excess sugar, the extra ketones can build up to dangerous, even life-threatening levels. This condition needs immediate care by your doctor.
|
|
CAUSES
|
|
The body needs insulin in order to process blood sugar efficiently and prevent excessive breakdown of fats; so diabetic ketoacidosis is often the result of a diabetic's failure to take enough insulin, or to take any insulin at all. The problem may also be triggered by infection, injury, and emotional stress. Often, doctors can find no immediate cause.
|
|
SYMPTOMS
|
|
Early signs include excessive thirst, frequent urination, headache, nausea, and vomiting. The breath may begin to take on a fruity odor, and you may develop rapid deep breathing, sleepiness, and fatigue. Other symptoms include weight loss and a feeling of fullness or pain in the stomach.
|
|
CARE
|
|
Call your doctor when you first notice early signs. You may need to be hospitalized for tests and treatment. If the condition is left untreated, it could lead to coma and death.
|
|
|