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Diabetic ketoacidosis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

DKA; Ketoacidosis; Diabetic coma

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to correct the elevated blood glucose level by giving additional insulin, and to replace fluids lost through excessive urination and vomiting. A person with diabetes may be able to recognize the early warning signs and make appropriate corrections at home, before the condition progresses.

If ketoacidosis is severe, hospitalization is required to control the condition. Insulin replacement will be given, fluid and electrolytes will be replaced, and the cause of the condition (such as infection) will be identified and treated.

Expectations (prognosis):

Cell damage from acidosis can lead to severe illness or death. Improved therapy for young people with diabetes has decreased the death rate associated with this condition. However, it remains a significant risk in the elderly, and in people who fall into a profound coma when treatment has been delayed.

Complications:

• Heart attack and tissue death of bowel tissue due to associated low blood pressure
• Renal failure

Calling your health care provider:

This condition can become a medical emergency. Call your health care provider if you notice early symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if nausea, vomiting, fruity breath, mental stupor, difficulty breathing, or decreased consciousness occur.

• Review Date: 8/8/2006
• Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, MD, Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network

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