DKA(Diabetic keto acidosis) is serious and can cause diabetic coma, or even death. DKA can be caused by an excess of ketones in your blood. Your cells can’t get enough glucose to produce energy so your body starts burning fat for energy. This is called ketones. When fat is broken down, the body produces ketones. When the body doesn’t have enough insulin, it creates ketones. The body becomes more acidic when ketones buildup in the blood.
These ketones can be a sign that you have diabetes or are becoming more sick. Ketones can cause kidney damage and lead to ketones poisoning. DKA can occur in anyone with diabetes.
However, it is uncommon for people with type 2. DKA is usually treated in a hospital. You can prevent DKA by being aware of the signs and regularly checking your blood and urine.
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What are the warning signs for DKA?
DKA typically develops slowly. This life-threatening condition can also develop quickly if vomiting is present.
These are the early symptoms:
Thirsty or very dry lips Frequent urination Blood sugar (blood glucose) levels that are high Ketones in high levels in the urine Then,
you may notice other symptoms:
Tiredness is a constant feeling Skin that is dry or flaky Nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain can all be caused by these conditions. There are many causes of vomiting, other than ketoacidosis. Contact your doctor if vomiting persists for longer than 2 hours. Difficulty in breathing A fruity smell on the breath Confusion or difficulty paying attention Warning! DKA can be dangerous and life-threatening. You should immediately contact your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
How can I test for ketones?
A simple urine test can detect ketones using a test strip that is similar to a blood strip. Ask your doctor when and how to test for ketones. Experts recommend that you test your urine for ketones if your blood glucose levels are higher than 240 mg/dl. If you feel ill, such as when you have a cold or flu, check for ketones every 4 to 6 hours. If your blood glucose levels are higher than 240 mg/dl, you should check for ketones every four to six hour. If you experience symptoms of DKA, make sure to check for ketones.
What happens if I find ketones at higher levels than normal?
If you have not been told by your doctor what ketones levels are considered dangerous, call them when you discover moderate amounts following more than one test. Your health care provider will often be able to tell you what to do by phone. If you have any of the following conditions, please immediately contact your doctor. High levels of ketones were detected in your urine test results.
High levels of ketones are detected in urine and high blood glucose levels. If your urine tests are positive for ketones, you may have vomited twice in the last four hours. If your urine tests reveal high levels of ketones or your blood glucose, NOT exercises should be done. Diabetes can be out of control if you have high levels of ketones or high blood glucose. Talk to your doctor about the best way to deal with this situation.
What causes DKA?
These are the three main reasons to consume moderately or high amounts of ketones. Too little insulin Perhaps you didn’t inject enough insulin. You may also need to inject more insulin if you have a medical condition. Too little food You may feel sick and not want to eat, which can lead to high levels of ketone. You may also experience high levels if you skip a meal. Insulin response (low blood glucose) You may have experienced an insulin reaction if you test positive for ketone in the morning.
What is the treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis?
DKA is usually treated with a combination of methods to normalize blood glucose and insulin levels. Your doctor will develop a treatment plan for diabetes if you are diagnosed with DKA, but not yet diagnosed as diabetes. DKA can be increased by infection. Your doctor will usually treat DKA if it is caused by an illness or infection. .
1.Fluid replacement Your doctor will likely give you intravenous fluids at the hospital to help your body rehydrate. You can lose a lot fluids during a DKA event which can decrease the blood flow through your body. Fluid replacement can restore normal blood flow. Fluid replacement can also be used to treat dehydration which can lead to even higher blood sugar levels.
2. Insulin therapy An IV will be used to administer insulin to you until your blood sugar levels fall below 200-250 mg/dLTrusted. You will also be monitored by the emergency team for any other results from blood tests that may indicate that insulin therapy is not necessary. Your doctor will help you avoid DKA by ensuring that your blood sugar and other tests are within acceptable limits.
3. Replacement of electrolytes Your body’s electrolytes can become abnormally low if your insulin levels drop too low. Electrolytes, which are electrically charged minerals, help your body function properly, including your heart and nerves. An IV is used to replace electrolytes
