Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is life-threatening—learn the warning signs to be prepared for any situation.

DKA is no joke, it’s a serious condition that can lead to diabetic coma or even death. DKA is caused by an overload of ketones present in your blood. 

When your cells don’t get the glucose they need for energy, your body begins to burn fat for energy, which produces ketones. Ketones are chemicals that the body creates when it breaks down fat to use for energy. The body does this when it doesn’t have enough insulin to use glucose, the body’s normal source of energy. When ketones build up in the blood, they make it more acidic. They are a warning sign that your diabetes is out of control or that you are getting sick.

High levels of ketones can poison the body. When levels get too high, you can develop DKA. DKA may happen to anyone with diabetes, though it is rare in people with type 2. 

Treatment for DKA usually takes place in the hospital. But you can help prevent it by learning the warning signs and checking your urine and blood regularly.

What are the warning signs of DKA?

DKA usually develops slowly. But when vomiting occurs, this life-threatening condition can develop in a few hours. Early symptoms include the following:

• Thirst or a very dry mouth
• Frequent urination
• High blood glucose (blood sugar) levels
• High levels of ketones in the urine

Then, other symptoms appear:

• Constantly feeling tired
• Dry or flushed skin
• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. Vomiting can be caused by many illnesses, not just ketoacidosis. If vomiting continues for more than two hours, contact your health care provider.
• Difficulty breathing
• Fruity odor on breath
• A hard time paying attention, or confusion

Warning! DKA is dangerous and serious. If you have any of the above symptoms, contact your health care provider IMMEDIATELY, or go to the nearest emergency room of your local hospital.