Introduction of Diabetic Ketoacidosis(DKA)

One complication people with type 1 diabete can experience when diabetes is poorly controlled is Diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA). It occurs when the body cannot use sugar (glucose) as a fuel source because there is no insulin or not enough insulin. Fat is used for fuel instead.

Ketone, a by-product of fat breakdown, will build up in the body when people with diabetes can not manage their sugar levels well.

Why Diabetic ketoacidosis may occur?

People with type 1 diabetes do not have enough insulin, a hormone the body uses to break down sugar (glucose) in the blood for energy. When glucose is not available, fat is broken down instead.

As fats are broken down, acids called ketones build up in the blood and urine. In high levels, ketones are poisonous. This condition is known as ketoacidosis.

Blood glucose levels rise (usually higher than 300 mg/dL) because the liver makes glucose to try to combat the problem. However, the cells cannot pull in that glucose without insulin.

Diabetic ketoacidosis is often the first sign of type 1 diabetes in people who do not yet have other symptoms. It can also occur in someone who has already been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Infection, injury, a serious illness, missing doses of insulin, or surgery can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis in people with type 1 diabetes.

People with type 2 diabetes can also develop ketoacidosis, but it is rare. Since type 1 diabetes typically starts before age 25 years, diabetic ketoacidosis is most common in this age group, but it may occur at any age. Males and females are equally affected.

Is Diabetic ketoacidosis dangerous?

Diabetics who develop ketoacidosis may eperience moderate or severe medical conditions, and the common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, general weakness, vomiting and loss of appetite. In severe conditions they can experience shortness of breath, increased heart rate, low blood pressure, increased rate of breathing and confusion. Early detection matters so as to stop the condition from worsening quickly.