Download diabetic ketoacidosis

DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS
What is diabetic ketoacidosis? — Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious
complication of diabetes when the body produces high levels of fatty acids
called ketones . It can occur in either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, but it is
more common in people with type 1 diabetes as they produce little or no
insulin. Insulin is the hormone that helps the sugar enter the cells to provide
energy.
In diabetic patients when the sugar levels are very high, due to insufficient
Insulin, the body breaks down fat as fuel. During this process, acids form in
the blood stream called ketones which build up in the body and is toxic.
What causes diabetic ketoacidosis? — People can get diabetic
ketoacidosis for a few reasons:
●Unawareness of presence of diabetes. So body breaks down fat.
● Major illness , such a heart attack or infection.
●Consuming some medicines or illegal drugs.
●They do not follow their prescription or take insulin as directed.
●Improper functioning of insulin pump.
What are the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis? — The symptoms can
include:
●Excessive thirst
●Increased frequency of urination, including at night
●Nausea or vomiting
●Abdominal pain
●Weakness/Lethargy/confusion
● fruity smelling breath
●Weight loss
Should I see a doctor or nurse? —In case of presence of above
mentioned symptoms see your doctor rightaway.
Is there a test for diabetic ketoacidosis? — Yes.There are lab tests
including blood and urine tests that are available to check if you have
Diabetic ketoacidosis. Your blood sugar has to be checked as well.
Because diabetic ketoacidosis can cause problems with the heart, you might
also need an electrocardiogram. This is a test to measure the electrical
activity in the heart.
How is diabetic ketoacidosis treated? — Treatment is done at the
hospital and can include:
●Fluids and electrolytes –to correct your dehydration as well as helping to
dilute excess sugar in the blood.There is also loss of electrolytes that are
needed for cells to work normally.These too have to be replaced.
●Insulin – When the body has enough insulin, it can use sugar as fuel and it
does not need to break down fat.
Can diabetic ketoacidosis be prevented? — You can reduce your
chances of getting diabetic ketoacidosis by:
●Taking your insulin exactly as directed
●Monitoring your blood sugars regularly.