Diabetes Risk: Deadly DKA Symptoms and Prevention
People with type 1 diabetes face a serious risk: diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a potentially fatal complication. DKA symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, excessive thirst, and fruity or metallic breath. Urgent medical attention is crucial if ketone levels are moderate or high.
DKA occurs when the body uses fat instead of glucose for energy, producing ketones. While small amounts are harmless, high levels can lead to ketosis. DKA can develop rapidly, within 24 hours, and may cause a diabetic coma or death if untreated.
Certain groups are at risk for ketoacidosis, even without type 1 diabetes. These include people with type 2 diabetes under specific circumstances, alcoholics, those with severe infection or stress, and patients with reduced food intake or medication-induced issues like SGLT2 inhibitors.
Monitoring ketone levels is vital for diabetes management. Newer blood glucose meters can test ketones, or urine ketone strips can be used. Doctors may order serum ketone tests to diagnose DKA, alcoholic ketoacidosis, or starvation. If you have diabetes and experience DKA symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
