Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (pronunciation: dye-uh-BET-ik KEE-toh-uh-si-DOH-sis) is a serious complication of Diabetes that occurs when your body produces high levels of blood acids called Ketones.

Etymology

The term "Diabetic Ketoacidosis" is derived from three words: "Diabetic" (pertaining to Diabetes), "Keto" (pertaining to Ketones), and "Acidosis" (a condition characterized by excessive acid in the body fluids).

Definition

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening condition that develops when cells in the body are unable to get the sugar (glucose) they need for energy because there is not enough Insulin. When the sugar cannot get into the cells, it stays in the blood. The kidneys filter some of the sugar from the blood and remove it from the body through urine.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of Diabetic Ketoacidosis include excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, and confusion.

Causes

Diabetic Ketoacidosis is caused by a lack of insulin in the body, which results in the body breaking down fat for energy and producing Ketones. High levels of ketones can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis if not treated properly.

Treatment

Treatment for Diabetic Ketoacidosis usually involves a combination of insulin therapy, fluid replacement, and electrolyte replacement.

Related Terms

• Diabetes
• Insulin
• Ketones
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypoglycemia

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Diabetic Ketoacidosis
• Wikipedia's article - Diabetic Ketoacidosis

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