Diabetic ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis (pronunciation: dye-uh-BET-ik KEY-toe-ass-ih-DOE-sis) is a serious complication of diabetes that occurs when your body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones.

Etymology

The term "diabetic ketoacidosis" is derived from three words: "diabetic," referring to diabetes, a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels; "keto," referring to ketones, which are substances the body produces when it breaks down fat for energy; and "acidosis," which refers to a condition that causes the body's fluids to become too acidic.

Causes

Diabetic ketoacidosis is caused by a lack of insulin in the body, which results in the body breaking down fat for energy and producing ketones. High levels of ketones can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis if not treated properly. This condition can be triggered by stress, illness, poor management of diabetes, or skipping insulin doses.

Symptoms

Symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis include excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, confusion, and fruity-scented breath.

Treatment

Treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis usually involves the administration of insulin and fluids to help lower blood sugar levels, reduce ketone levels, and restore electrolyte balance.

Related Terms

• Diabetes
• Insulin
• Ketones
• Acidosis
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypoglycemia

See Also

• Diabetes management
• Insulin therapy
• Diabetic diet

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Diabetic ketoacidosis
• Wikipedia's article - Diabetic ketoacidosis

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