DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS (DKA)

DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS

Ketone bodies in urine is one diagnostic features of DKA

A serious condition / complication of Diabetes Mellitus that appear when high amount / level of blood acid called ketones are produced. This conditions develops when there is insufficient amount of insulin, Primary Insulin is essential for the aid sugar (glucose) is a major source of energy for the body's tissue enter into the cells for the utilization, without Insulin body can not utilize glucose as a source of energy instead it breaks down fats as fuel. Blood acid (Ketones) are produced by this process and it accumulate into blood stream and eventually leads to Diabetic Ketoacidosis if remain without be treated.

DIAGNOSIS OF DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS

Diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis is based into three bases, such as:

• Clinical History (Symptoms) 

-Weakness and fatique

-confusion / loss of concentration

-Polyuria (abnormal large amount of urine)

-Polyipsia (excessive thirst)

-Weight loss

-Abdominal pain

• Clinical Examination (Signs)

-deep breath (Kusimal Breathing)

-Dehydration

-Acetone smell on breath

-Lethargy (sleepiness) and drowsiness

• Biochemical (Laboratory findings)

-Blood glucose level more than 250 mg/dl

-Ketone bodies in urine

There are other investigations can be done in laboratory such as Renal Function Test and Electrolytes analysis.

Blood sugar test 

SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS OF DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS

Diabetic Ketoacidosis is usually develops slowly, its better for person with diabetes or who at at risk of diabetes to learn about signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis and seek for emergency care in hospital. It become life threatening condition when vomiting occurs.

• Frequent urination
• Increased level of ketones in urine
• Dry mouth and thirst
• High level of blood glucose (Hyperglycemia)
• Dry skin
• Difficult in breathing
• Ketone smell on breath
• Tiredness and weakness
• Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain
• confusion and loss of concentration

TREATMENT OF DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS

Insulin injection

Diabetic ketoacidosis is treated as medical emergency, The arm is to replace body fluid, decrease blood glucose and reduce level of ketones in the urine by insulin.

• Fluid replacement
• Insulin infusion

Treatment of any underlying infection with appropriate medication is encouraged under supervision from doctor. Diabetic ketoacidosis can be prevented by good adherence day rule for diabetic individuals.