Ketoacidosis

What it is:

This disorder, also known as diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, occurs when someone has harmfully high levels of ketones, or acids, building up in his blood. Ketones are a chemical produced when there's a shortage of insulin in the blood and the body is forced to break down fat for energy. Ketones can spill over into the urine when a person's body doesn't have enough insulin, and essentially it act as a poison.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing, rapid breath, or shortness of breath
• Breath that smells fruity
• A very dry mouth
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty concentrating
• Extreme tiredness, drowsiness, or weakness
• Rapid heartbeat and low blood pressure
• Blood sugar level higher than 300 mg/dL

How to treat it:

This is an emergency condition that requires immediate attention. Call 911 or take the person to the nearest hospital.

How to prevent it:

• Make sure the patient drinks plenty of water so he stays hydrated and can flush ketones out of his system.
• He can do a simple urine test available over the counter to check for ketones.
• He should refrain from exercising if his blood glucose is 250 mg/dL or higher and ketones are present in his urine.
• He should check his blood glucose often and immediately report any sky-high readings to his main diabetes care provider.