Diabetic Acidosis

Diabetic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious complication associated with diabetes mellitus. The prevalence of this life-threatening complication is more in the patients of type 1 diabetes, though, occasionally those with type 2 diabetes can also experience the condition. As we know, type 1 diabetes is characterized by the insufficient production of insulin, the hormone required by the cells and tissues of the body to absorb glucose from the bloodstream. On the other hand, type 2 diabetes is the condition, which results from insulin resistance, or an inability of the body cells to utilize insulin properly.

Now, it results from an insufficiency or shortage of insulin, without which the cells cannot absorb and use glucose for energy. So, the body utilizes fats for energy production and generates ketones in the process. Ketones then enter the bloodstream and create toxicity in the body, which is known as diabetic ketoacidosis. It can be distinguished from other types of ketoacidosis by an abnormally high level of blood sugar.

What Causes Diabetic Ketoacidosis?

It is a complication of poorly controlled diabetes. It can also be a symptom of undiagnosed diabetes. Usually, there are some underlying conditions that play a significant role in the development of diabetic ketoacidosis. Such conditions can include, insufficient intake of insulin doses, and certain illnesses and infections like, gastroenteritis, influenza, pneumonia and infection of the urinary tract. Even a wrong diet or eating disorder, pregnancy and conditions like, heart attack and stroke can contribute to its development.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis Symptoms

It causes the level of blood sugar to rise significantly. Therefore, its symptoms greatly resemble the general symptoms of high blood sugar. However, as far as the severity of the symptoms are concerned, its symptoms are more severe than the high blood sugar symptoms. The usual symptoms observed in diabetic ketoacidosis are

• Increased thirst and urination
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid and deep breathing
• Flushed and dry skin
• Dry mouth
• A strong acetone like breath odor
• Breathing difficulty
• Muscle ache
• Abdominal pain and decreased appetite
• Confusion
• Blurred vision
• Loss of consciousness or diabetic coma

Diagnosis and Treatment for Diabetic Ketoacidosis

It is a serious condition, that requires immediate hospitalization. The specific tests and examinations carried out for diagnosing the condition include, blood glucose test, urinalysis to measure the level of ketones in the urine, arterial blood gas test, amylase blood test and potassium blood test. Additionally, blood tests are also performed to measure the level of urea and creatinine.

It requires immediate medical attention to correct the imbalances in the blood glucose level. Insulin is administered intravenously to bring the level of blood sugar to the normal range. Intravenous fluid administration is also carried out to correct dehydration, and restore the balance of fluid and electrolyte in the body. Further treatment of the condition depends on the underlying causes. As for example, antibiotics are given along with insulin and fluid, if infection is present.

It is a life-threatening condition that gives rise to severe complications like, renal failure, cerebral edema and heart attack. As poorly controlled diabetes is one of the most important risk factors for this condition, it is very important to take insulin and other diabetes medications regularly and in the right doses, as directed by your physician. Equally important is to monitor the level of blood glucose at regular intervals. In case of any illness and infection, be sure to immediately consult your physician to treat the condition, as early as possible. Lastly, if you observe these signs, inform your health care provider at the earliest.