What is Ketoacidosis?
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is a complication of Type 1 Diabetes where the body makes too much blood acids which are also called ketones. When the body does not create enough insulin (Type 1 Diabetes), your body will resort to breaking down fats for fuel. Ketones eventually build up in the bloodstream and if untreated will develop into ketoacidosis. DKA is considered to be a medical emergency that requires hospitalization
and constant monitoring.
Symptoms
- Extreme thirst
- Stomach pain
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea/vomiting
- Frequent urination
- High blood sugar levels
Causes
- Illness or infection cause your body to produce high levels of cortisol and adrenaline which can affect the purpose of insulin (produce sugar into cells).
- Physical/emotional trauma
- Pregnancy
- Heart Attack/Stroke
- Pancreatitis
- Use of corticosteroids or diuretics
- Cocaine use
Risk Factors
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Missing insulin doses
Treatment
DKA is treated with fluids, electrolytes (sodium and potassium), and chloride, and insulin.
- Fluids: Can be given orally or by a vein. Fluids are often replaced due to the frequent urination and can also dilute the excess sugars in the body.
- Electrolytes: Sodium, potassium and chloride carry an electric charge through the body. Low levels of insulin can also result in low electrolytes in the body. These electrolytes can be replenished only by vein.
- Insulin: Low Insulin is the main factor that causes DKA. Insulin therapy is a treatment given by vein until blood sugar levels are 200mg/dL or lower.
Complications
Complications of DKA often occur after treatment.
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Insulin therapy can cause blood sugar levels to drop.
- Hypokalemia (low potassium): Fluid and insulin treatment can cause potassium levels to drop severely low which can effect the functioning of your heart.
- Cerebral Edema (swelling of brain): When blood sugar levels fluctuate too quickly, the swelling of the brain can occur, most often in children.