As one navigates life with diabetes, it’s crucial to be aware of a serious condition known as Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a life-threatening complication that can occur in people with diabetes, and understanding the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis, its causes, and how to treat it is vital. Let’s go through the main topic.
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Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
What is DKA Diabetes?
DKA diabetes is a severe condition that happens when your body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones. It occurs when your body can’t produce enough insulin, causing sugar to build up in your blood. Knowing what DKA diabetes is, is the first step in preventing and managing this condition.
Symptoms of Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Recognizing the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis is key to early detection and treatment. Common symptoms include
- frequent urination
- excessive thirst
- nausea
- abdominal pain
- fatigue
More severe symptoms may include
- confusion
- shortness of breath
- fruity-scented breath.
Generally, (hyperglycemia) and high amounts of ketones are highly responsible for DKA. A home-testing kit for ketone levels is readily available. Symptoms usually start within 24 hours.
Causes of Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Your body’s natural insulin helps your cells absorb sugar.
As a result, hormones that break down fat for energy release produce ketones, which are acids. Toxic ketones are deposited in the blood and excreted in the urine. It is a complicated issue.
Most often, diabetic ketoacidosis carries on by:
A Disease:
Certain hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, might spike in response to an infection or other sickness. These hormones often work against the effects of insulin. If you choose to ignore the disease, you run the risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis. Infections of the lungs and urinary tract are typical causes.
A Problem with Insulin Therapy:
Diabetic ketoacidosis can trigger by insulin dosing errors, inadequate insulin delivery, or a malfunctioning insulin pump.
The following additional variables may also contribute to the development of diabetic ketoacidosis:
- Trauma of any kind, whether physical or mental.
- A heart attack or a stroke.
- Pancreatitis.
- Pregnancy.
- Addiction to alcohol or drugs, especially cocaine.
- Aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs such corticosteroids and diuretics.
DKA Risks Factors to Watch Out For
However, diabetes ketoacidosis is more likely to occur if you:
- Have type 1 diabetes.
- Frequently miss insulin doses.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis: How to Treat
So, diabetic ketoacidosis: how to treat it? Prompt medical treatment is essential. Treatment typically involves a combination of fluid replacement, electrolyte replacement, and insulin therapy. Fluids are given to treat dehydration, while electrolyte replacement helps replenish vital minerals. Insulin therapy reduces the high blood sugar levels.
Major Complications of DKA Treatment
Hypoglycemic episode (hypoglycemia):
Glucose may enter your cells via insulin, which lowers your blood sugar. If your blood glucose levels drop too quickly after eating, you risk developing low blood sugar, which may be fatal.
The lack of potassium in the body (hypokalemia):
Diabetic ketoacidosis may be treated with insulin and water. However, this might cause potassium levels to go dangerously low.
Your heart, muscles, and nerves may all be affected by a low potassium level. When treating diabetic ketoacidosis, electrolytes, such as potassium, are frequently administered in addition to fluid replenishment as a precautionary measure.
Irritation of the head (cerebral edema):
Swelling of the brain might occur if you make a rapid change to your blood sugar level. Diabetes complications in children are more prevalent, particularly in those who have just been diagnosed.
The dangers of diabetic ketoacidosis are substantially more significant. You should deal with it with proper care. It is possible to lose consciousness and finally die from diabetic ketoacidosis.
Prevention of DKA Diabetes
Preventing diabetic ketoacidosis and other consequences of diabetes is easy if you know what to do.
Make a commitment to yourself to get your diabetes under control:
Make it a priority in your life to eat nutritious foods and get regular exercise. Be sure that you give your insulin or diabetes medication exactly as directed on the packaging.
Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly:
It is possible that you may need to test and record the levels of glucose in your blood more often if you are ill or anxious. Checking your blood sugar level often is the only way to guarantee that it is within the target range you have established for it.
Adapt your insulin dosage:
Your doctor or a diabetes educator may help you modify the amount of insulin you take. Depending on a number of factors, including
- your blood sugar level
- the foods you consume
- the amount of activity you get
- and whether or not you are ill
If your blood sugar levels start to rise, you should immediately begin following the treatment plan that you have been given for diabetes.
Check your ketone level:
Over-the-counter urine ketones test kits may help you detect high levels of ketones in your urine when you feel under the weather or stressed.
Doctors and emergency services should be contacted immediately if the ketone level in your blood is moderate or high. More insulin may be required if your ketones are low.
Make sure you are ready to move fast:
If you have high blood sugar or a high quantity of ketones in your urine and believe you may be developing diabetic ketoacidosis, you should seek emergency medical assistance.
How To Check?
Diabetic ketoacidosis is more likely to occur in those having type 1 diabetes or frequently miss insulin doses. Use an over-the-counter ketone test kit to examine your urine or a meter to check your blood for ketones. Do it every 4 to 6 hours if you’re unwell or have blood sugar levels above 240 mg/dL. Some of the best ketone test kits are given below:
- KetoBM Blood Ketone Meter Kit
- KETO-MOJO Glucose & Ketone Testing Kit
- KetoSens Blood Ketone Monitoring Starter Kit
Conclusion
DKA diabetes is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Understanding the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis, knowing the causes, and being aware of how to treat and prevent the condition is essential for anyone living with diabetes. Regular check-ups and communication with your healthcare provider are also important to manage your condition effectively. Remember, early detection and intervention can significantly improve the prognosis of DKA diabetes. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and take control of your health.
Remember, this blog post should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing symptoms or need medical advice.
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