Diabetic ketoacidosis is caused due to no or low insulin secretion; shortage of energy due to the absence of needed insulin ends up with the breakdown of fat for energy.
Breakdown of fat (for the energy requirement) releases ketones into the blood streams. This produces ketoacidosis symptoms, mostly within 24 hours.
Diabetic ketoacidosis symptoms
- Too much thirst
- Urinate frequently
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the abdominal
- Appetite loss
- Weakness or fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Shortness of breath
- low pulse and blood pressure
- Fruity-scented breath
- Confusion
Immediate treatment is a must, if your symptoms are.
- vomiting and unable to uptake any food or liquid
- blood-glucose level is higher than normal and not responding to home treatment
- urine ketone level is moderate or high
Patient need emergency care if,
- blood-glucose level is consistently higher than 300 (mg/dL) or 16.5 (mmol/L) excess ketones in urine
- Have multiple symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis - excessive thirst or urination, nausea and vomiting, pain in abdomen, appetite loss, shortness of breath, fruity-scented breath, and confusion.
You forgot not; untreated diabetic ketoacidosis could be fatal.