Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious medical condition that occurs when the body starts burning fat for energy, releasing ketones (acids) into the bloodstream that ultimately poison the body. It occurs predominantly among those with Type 1 diabetes. If left untreated or not treated in a timely manner, diabetic ketoacidosis can lead to coma, a swelling of the brain or death. Contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency care if you experience any of these symptoms.
Early Symptoms
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis often develop slowly. Early signs typically resemble those of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and include symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, dry mouth and low blood pressure that causes severe dizziness when moving from a sitting to a standing position. High levels of ketones may also be detected in urine. The ADA advises people to check for ketones in their urine when their blood glucose levels have exceeded 240mg/dl.
Serious Symptoms
Ketoacidosis can quickly become life-threatening when other serious symptoms emerge. Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain that accompany symptoms of hyperglycemia are cardinal signs of ketoacidosis, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library (MMOML). Though many of these signs are nonspecific and may be caused by a number of illnesses, it's crucial to contact your doctor in the event these symptoms develop so that you can be sure to get proper care.
Other symptoms that may develop include a fruity odor on the breath, dry or flushed skin or a feeling of persistent and severe fatigue or lethargy. Extremely low blood pressure and rapid, irregular heartbeat can occur as a result of dehydration, causing people to breathe rapidly and heavily to try to get air. Some people may also notice a change in alertness or consciousness, feeling confused and having a hard time paying attention.
The MMOML warns that fever is not a typical symptom. If a fever develops, it's a sign of an underlying infection that requires timely treatment.
Rare Symptoms
A rare condition known as acute cerebral edema (swelling) may occur in roughly 1 percent of those with diabetic ketoacidosis. This condition is most common among children. The initial symptom is often respiratory arrest or the sudden cessation of breathing. Others may develop a headache or shifting levels of consciousness, according to the MMOML. If you or your child develop any of these symptoms, call 911 right away.
