Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a dangerous complication of diabetes that is caused by a lack of insulin in the body.
DKA occurs when the body is unable to break down glucose because there isn't enough insulin. Instead, it breaks down fat as an alternative source of fuel. This causes a build-up of a by-product called ketones.
Most cases of DKA occur in people with type 1 diabetes, although it can also be a complication of type 2 diabetes.
Symptoms of DKA include:
- passing large amounts of urine
- feeling very thirsty
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
If you notice any of the symptoms of DKA and your blood sugar levels are high, ask for immediate medical help.
Read more about the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Is DKA serious?
Ketones disrupt the metabolism, and the more ketones that are produced, the more ill a person with DKA will become.
Left untreated, people with DKA can experience potentially fatal complications, such as severe dehydration, coma and swelling of the brain.
Read more about the complications of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Treating DKA
If DKA is diagnosed while still in its early stages, it may be possible to relieve the symptoms and restore the normal workings of the body with an insulin injection.
People with more advanced symptoms will need to be admitted to hospital where they will be given a combination of insulin and fluids to prevent complications.
Read more about treating diabetic ketoacidosis.
DKA triggers
Triggers for DKA include:
- bacterial infections, such as pneumonia (infection of the lungs)
- failing to follow the recommended treatment for type 1 diabetes (regular insulin injections)
- drug misuse or alcohol misuse
Read more about the potential causes of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Preventing DKA
If you have type 1 diabetes, it's important that you follow your recommended treatment plan, both in terms of taking regular insulin injections as directed and monitoring your blood glucose levels for any unusual activity.
Read more about preventing diabetic ketoacidosis.
Who is affected by DKA?
DKA is a relatively common complication in people with diabetes, particularly children and younger adults who have type 1 diabetes.
In around one-in-four cases, DKA develops in people who were previously unaware that they had type 1 diabetes.
DKA accounts for around half of all diabetes-related hospital admissions in people with type 1 diabetes.
Younger children under the age of four are the ones thought to be most at risk.
