Diabetic ketoacidosis
October 15, 2019Uncategorized
Diabetic ketoacidosis —Insulin is a hormone that allows the sugar to enter the cells to provide energy. In Diabetic people because of insufficient Insulin, the body breaks down fat for fuel. Due to this sometimes toxic acids build up in the body called as ketones. This condition is called Diabetic ketoacidosis. This most commonly occurs in Type 1 Diabetics.
Causes:-
- Unawareness of presence of diabetes. So body breaks down fat.
- They do not follow their prescription or take insulin as directed.
- Major illness , such a heart attack or infection
- Consuming some medicines or illegal drugs
- Improper functioning of insulin pump.
Symptoms:-
- Increased frequency of urination, including at night
- Increased thirst
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness/Lethargy/confusion
- Nausea/vomiting
- fruity smelling breath
- Weight loss
Tests for diabetic ketoacidosis
There are blood and urine tests that are available to check if you have Diabetic ketoacidosis. Your blood sugar has to be checked as well. An ECG (electrocardiogram) also may be required to make sure the electric activity of the heart is normal.
Treatment needs to be done at the hospital with:
- Fluids and electrolytes – to correct your dehydration as well as helping to dilute excess sugar in the blood. There is also loss of electrolytes that are needed for cells to work normally. These too have to be replaced.
- Insulin –Insulin injections are needed to keep the blood sugar level under control. Thus the fat is not utilized.
Prevention
- Insulin injection doses should be followed as per your doctor’s advice.
- Monitoring your blood sugars regularly so that it is under good control.