Ketoacidosis
Ketoacidosis is a serious condition associated with illness or very high blood glucose (sugar) levels in type 1 diabetes. It develops gradually over hours or days.
It is a sign of insufficient insulin. Without enough insulin, the body’s cells cannot use glucose for energy. To make up for this, the body begins to burn fat for energy instead. This leads to accumulation of dangerous chemical substances in the blood called ketones, which also appear in the urine.
Symptoms of ketoacidosis
High blood glucose level and moderate to heavy ketones in the urine with:
- rapid breathing;
- flushed cheeks;
- abdominal pain;
- sweet acetone smell on the breath;
- vomiting; or
- dehydration.
This is a medical emergency and can be life threatening if not treated properly. If these symptoms are present, contact your doctor or go to hospital.
Last Reviewed: 08 July 2003
Sponsored links
Related Topics
Diabetic conditions and complications
Support Group Searches
Health support groups for Diabetes
Related Links
Diabetes Australia 
