Diabetic ketoacidosis
(DKA) is a serious complication of diabetes.
DKA is a medical acronym for diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication that can develop when a person with diabetes has too little insulin available for his body's needs. If DKA isn't treated, it can be fatal.
Pathophysiology
When someone with diabetes doesn't have enough insulin for her body to use glucose as a source of fuel, her body burns fat instead. When fat is used for fuel, byproducts known as ketones accumulate in her body.
Effects
Ketone levels in the blood and urine rise, causing a condition of acid-base imbalance known as diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA.
Early Symptoms
During the early stages of DKA, the individual may be very thirsty and urinate frequently. He may have a headache, feel tired, lose his appetite, be fatigued, and experience abdominal pain or shortness of breath.
Warning Signs
As DKA progresses, the person will develop serious warning signs that may include a flushed face, breathing that's deep and rapid, nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, dry skin and mouth, and a fruity odor to his breath. It's important to seek immediate medical attention for these symptoms.
Considerations
If DKA is not treated promptly and effectively with insulin and fluids, the person may develop kidney failure, have a heart attack because of low blood pressure, or experience a build-up of fluid within the brain known as cerebral edema that can be fatal.
Tags: diabetic ketoacidosis, ketoacidosis serious, ketoacidosis serious complication, serious complication, with diabetes
