|
|
|||
|
Diabetic Ketoacidodosis and your health Ketoacidosis is a condition that occurs in individuals with diabetes. It is more prevalent in people with type 1 diabetes, as opposed to those with type 2 diabetes. With gender, this complication does not discriminate, affecting just as many females as males. Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs when blood sugar, normally the body's energy source, is not available. Instead, the body resorts to using fat as an alternate fuel source. The reason for the issues with the primary energy source is because of a lack of insulin-the fact is that there is no shortage of blood sugar; it's just that the body cannot use it. Symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis More of the frequent symptoms of ketoacidosis include short periods of frequent urination, fatigue, stiffness in the muscles and/or joints, nausea, panting (shortness of breath) and an elevated rate of breathing. Some of the other symptoms include pain in the abdominal area, difficulty breathing, and reduced consciousness. In severe cases, or left untreated, the individual will have problems with cognitive thinking that will eventually lead to a coma. Causes When an individual has type 1 diabetes, that person lacks the ability to produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows blood glucose, used for energy, to pass through the muscles, tissues and organs of the body. If glucose is not available, then the body resorts to using fat as an alternative means of energy. There are certain byproducts in fats known as ketones. When ketones build up in the blood stream, ketoacidosis occurs. Ketone testing is important in diabetes management. Often, this condition can lead to an individual being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. It can also occur with a person who has already been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. If an individual forgets to administer a dose of insulin, and a result of this insulin deficiency then diabetic ketoacidosis can occur. Treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis Treatment will vary, depending on the severity of the condition. The main focus is to balance the glucose level in the blood with insulin. Also, a large amount of fluids may have been lost by the individual at that point in time, so it will be necessary to replete them. Step by step, insulin will be administered to balance the glucose, fluids will be given and the individual will need rest. The main cause of the condition will be identified and a treatment plan will be created to prevent the condition from recurring. The worst case scenario of diabetic ketoacidosis is a coma or even death. The condition must be treated as soon as possible to prevent this from happening. If an individual is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, it is imperative that he/she follow the treatment plan given by his/her healthcare professional. Any failure to do so, namely administering insulin at a scheduled time, may result in fatal consequences. . . From diabetic ketoacidosis to normal blood sugar Return to diabetes cure strategy |
ReviewsSearch This Site |
||
Type 2 DiabetesDiabetes Test |
|||
|
|
|||
|
|
|||