Either way, diabetes can cause destabilized blood sugar levels, which can be risky for your health. Ketones, for the most part, don’t cause too many problems, because the body can usually produce more insulin to slow down the production of this acid. The problem occurs when there isn’t enough insulin present to do that job or the rate of ketone production is too rapid. This is more common in type 1 diabetes and is possible, though rare, among people with type 2 diabetes.
What Is Diabetic Ketoacidosis?
Fast, deep breathingFruity smelling breathStomach painConfusionUnconsciousnessVomiting or diarrheaBlurry vision
The Importance of Knowing When to Take Action
Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, it’s important to be aware of the signs of diabetic ketoacidosis so you can take action as needed.
Causes
Risk Factors
When you arrive at the hospital, a doctor may perform a variety of tests to determine whether you’re suffering from diabetic ketoacidosis or another condition. These include a blood sugar test, a blood test for electrolytes and kidney function, and a blood test to look for acid in the blood. You’ll also have a urinalysis to quickly assess if there are ketones present. Frequently check your blood sugar level. This means at least three to four times a day before and after meals. Check your blood sugar more often when you’re ill or have an infection, such as the common cold, the flu, or a urinary tract infection. Purchase and keep a stock of ketone urine test strips. Check your ketone level whenever your blood sugar rises above 250 mg/dL. Make sure your ketone urine strips aren’t expired, and consider foil-wrapping them to increase their longevity. Call an ambulance or go to the emergency room if you’re unable to lower your blood sugar and ketone level. Talk to your doctor if you feel that your insulin dose isn’t working properly. Signs include higher-than-normal blood sugar readings, low blood sugar, headaches, tiredness, and weakness. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose, or there could be an issue with your insulin pump. Other complications from treatment include a low potassium level. Insulin causes a shift of potassium from the bloodstream to the cells. If insulin is given to a person with already low potassium levels in the blood, this can make their potassium levels dangerously low. Low potassium can affect heart, muscle, and nerve function.
