Warning Signs of Diabetic Ketoacidosis You Shouldn’t Ignore

If you've been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important that you know what are the warning signs of Diabetes Ketoacidosis. Diabetes Ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious and life-threatening condition that can occur in people with diabetes, primarily caused due to lack of insulin production and high levels of blood acids called ketones. DKA is most common in individuals with type 1 diabetes but can also occur in individuals with type 2 diabetes under specific conditions. Let’s take a closer look at the warning signs of Diabetic Ketoacidosis as high levels of ketones can poison the body.

Treatment for DKA usually requires hospitalization, but you can prevent it by learning the early symptoms and warning signs such as extreme thirst, high blood glucose levels, and frequent urination. DKA usually develops slowly, however, when vomiting occurs, this life-threatening condition can develop in a few hours.  

At Felix Hospitals, the best endocrinology hospital in Noida, our endocrinology experts are equipped to provide accurate diabetes diagnosis and advanced treatment. For appointments, contact: +(91) 9667064100

What Is Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)?

DKA occurs when there is a lack of insulin production in the body. Basically when the body doesn’t have enough insulin, it cannot process sugar that’s used for energy. As a result, the body starts to break down fat, which in turn releases ketones. So ketones are produced whenever the body uses fat for energy.
 

As a result, ketones make your blood acidic and if the treatment is delayed, this can lead to:
 

• Impaired enzymes
   
• Muscle weakness
   
• Irregular heartbeats
   
• Confusion
   
• Disorientation
   
• Coma

Common Causes of Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Several factors can contribute to the onset of Diabetic Ketoacidosis. In fact, DKA is sometimes the first sign of type 1 diabetes in people who have not yet been diagnosed. Some of the common causes include: 
 

• Missed insulin dose disrupts glucose regulation, leading to increased ketone production.
   
• Undiagnosed diabetes is one of the primary causes. If you’re not aware that you are diabetic, then you can’t adjust your insulin levels. 
   
• Infections such as urinary tract infections or pneumonia can trigger DKA.
   
• Physical or emotional stress can elevate hormone levels that counteract insulin’s effects, increasing the risk of DKA.
   
• Excessive consumption of alcohol or certain drugs, such as corticosteroids, can increase the likelihood of DKA.
   
• Heart Attacks or strokes can exacerbate insulin resistance and lead to DKA in people with diabetes.
   
• Pancreatitis can lead to DKA, and it can also be a symptom of it. 
   
• Pregnant women with diabetes are at a higher risk of DKA.

High Blood Sugar Levels – A Warning Sign For Ketoacidosis

High blood glucose (blood sugar) levels is one of the early symptoms of DKA, however, there is no one level that triggers ketoacidosis. The level may vary from person to person. That said, in general, DKA begins when blood sugar levels exceed 250 mg/dL. So, if your blood sugar level exceeds this level, contact your diabetologist immediately.  

Other Warning Signs & Symptoms of Diabetic Ketoacidosis

DKA occurs when a person has less insulin than their body needs to process the amount of sugar in the blood. Basically, low insulin levels lead to DKA.

Insulin allows us to convert blood sugar into energy. Without enough insulin the body cannot produce enough energy from blood sugar. Because of this the blood sugar becomes very high, and the liver turns fat into ketones which supply some energy, a process called ketosis.
 

As mentioned, DKA can become complicated and life-threatening if not treated on time. If you are diabetic, it's important for you to know the early warning signs, that include:
 

• Extreme thirst or dehydration
   
• Urinating more than usual
   
• High levels of ketones in blood
   
• Elevated blood sugar levels

Other symptoms that will follow includes:
 

• Headaches
   
• Dry mouth
   
• Abdominal pain
   
• Nausea
   
• Fatigue
   
• Weakness
   
• Vomiting
   
• Confusion

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of DKA involves blood tests to measure acid levels, blood sugar, and ketones. Diabetes patients can check ketones at home with home kits available over the counter.  Some glucose meters can also test for ketones in the blood sample when patients do a finger prick.

Common tests to diagnose DKA include:

• Blood Tests: These include testing blood sugar levels, ketone levels and blood pH.
   
• Urinalysis: Looking at a sample of urine helps your doctor measure your ketones, sugar, and other nutrients.
   
• Basic Metabolic Panel: This blood test helps to check levels of potassium, sodium, and chloride, kidney function which are often imbalanced in DKA.

Treatment

Treatment for DKA is complex, and patients with DKA need to be admitted to the intensive care unit, for careful monitoring. The primary goal of DKA treatment is to stabilize high blood sugar levels with insulin and correct metabolic imbalances. This involves:
 

• Balancing Blood Chemistry: Intravenous (IV) fluids are administered to correct possible dehydration, clear ketones through the urine and correct blood chemistry.
   
• Insulin Through IV: Insulin is given intravenously to allow the body to resume making energy from glucose rather than ketones. 
   
• Electrolyte Replacement: Potassium and other electrolytes are replenished as they often drop during treatment.
   
• Addressing Underlying Causes: A further health or heart evaluation is necessary if your doctor suspects something.

How to Avoid DKA?

• Take Insulin as Needed and Directed: Be sure to administer insulin injections and do not  skip medication or dosages. When you have diabetes, constant vigilance is important to remain healthy. 
   
• Monitor Ketone Levels: You can purchase testing strips that will let you know your levels of ketones at home. 
   
• Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Regularly check blood sugar levels to ensure they remain within the target range.
   
• Healthy Eating: Make sure to have a healthy diet, one that is properly balanced with protein, fats, and carbohydrates. 
   
•  Educate Yourself: Learn the early signs of DKA to act promptly if symptoms arise.
   
• Consult Your Doctor: Keep regular appointments with your endocrinologist to adjust your diabetes management plan as needed.

Meet the Best Endocrinologist at Felix Hospitals

Felix Hospital is recognized as one of the best Endocrinology hospitals in Noida. We have a team of experienced endocrinologists and diabetologists dedicated to providing top-notch care for diabetes and its complications, including Diabetic Ketoacidosis. Our team, led by Dr Vimal Gupta, uses advanced diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments to ensure patient safety and recovery.

Whether you’re seeking preventive advice or emergency care, Felix Hospitals offers comprehensive support for managing diabetes and maintaining endocrine health. Schedule an appointment today to meet the best doctors in the field.
 

Book a consultation with our endocrinology team for expert care and personalized treatment plans for diabetes and its complications.
 

Conclusion

Diabetic Ketoacidosis can be a life-threatening condition but by understanding the early warning signs of Diabetic Ketoacidosis, individuals with diabetes can minimize their risk of developing the condition.

FAQs

1. Who is at risk of DKA?
Ans: People with type 1 diabetes are at the highest risk, but it can also occur in individuals with type 2 diabetes under certain conditions.

2. Can dehydration cause DKA?
Ans: DKA is a state of insulin deficiency. The life threatening condition can be aggravated by dehydration.

3. Can DKA be prevented?
Ans: Yes, by managing blood sugar levels, taking insulin as prescribed, and monitoring for ketones during illness or stress.

4. Can a diabetic survive without insulin?
Ans: Without insulin, a diabetes patient could develop diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This is a life-limiting condition.

5. What are signs of a diabetic emergency?
Ans: Someone who is hypoglycaemic (having a low blood sugar) may have symptoms including: sweating, feeling drowsy and confused, unconscious and unresponsive.