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Ketoacidosis, also called diabetic ketoacidosis, is a serious complication of diabetes that can be life-threatening. In this article, we will discuss what ketoacidosis is, its causes, symptoms, methods of diagnosis and effective treatment of this condition. Also learn about suggestions for preventing ketoacidosis and recommended articles on the topic.
What is ketoacidosis?
Ketoacidosis is the result of an uncontrolled increase in the level of ketones in the blood. When the body cannot properly use glucose as an energy source, it begins to burn fats, which leads to the production of ketones. As a result of this process, the level of ketones in the body increases dramatically, which leads to a disruption of the acid-base balance in the body.
Causes of ketoacidosis
The most common cause of ketoacidosis is diabetes, especially type 1. In people with type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin, the hormone responsible for moving glucose into cells. This leads to a deficiency of glucose in the cells, and the increased consumption of fats as an energy source causes the production of excess ketones.
In type 2 diabetes, ketoacidosis may occur in rare cases, especially if the diabetes is poorly controlled or is accompanied by other diseases.
Symptoms of ketoacidosis
Symptoms of ketoacidosis can be very severe and require immediate medical intervention. Belong to them:
- High blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia)
- Severe drowsiness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Respiratory disorders
- Stomachache
- High body temperature
- The smell of acetone on your breath
If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor or go to an emergency room immediately.
Diagnosis of ketoacidosis
Diagnosing ketoacidosis involves blood tests that help determine glucose and ketone levels. Your doctor may also perform a urine test to confirm the presence of ketones.
It is worth emphasizing that independent diagnosis and treatment of ketoacidosis is impossible and requires professional medical care.
Treatment of diabetic acidosis
Treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis is urgent and focuses on restoring the acid-base balance and normalizing blood glucose levels. Treatment may include:
- Administer insulin if needed
- Balancing electrolyte levels such as potassium
- Introducing proper hydration of the body
- Causal treatment of diabetes
It is important that treatment of ketoacidosis be carried out under close medical supervision.
Your suggestions
To avoid ketoacidosis, especially if you have diabetes, it is important to keep your blood glucose levels under proper control. Regularly monitoring your sugar levels, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help you stay healthy.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in diabetes and its complications, we recommend reading the following articles:
- “Type 2 diabetes – causes, symptoms, treatment”
- “How to control blood sugar levels – tips for diabetics”
- “The role of insulin in the body – why is it so important?”
Knowledge about diabetes and its complications can help you better understand the disease and manage it effectively.
In summary, ketoacidosis is a serious complication of diabetes that requires immediate medical intervention. Understanding the causes, symptoms and effective treatment of this condition is crucial to maintaining the health and lives of people with diabetes.