9/17/2013

If you have diabetes type 1 then you are very prone to the development of diabetic ketoacidosis.



Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) results from a severe, relative or absolute insulin deficiency leading to accumulation of excess glucose (hyperglycemia) and ketones in the blood. This ketones are very toxic chemicals that affect the body cells especially the brain cells.



Diabetic ketoacidosis is very common in Type 1 diabetes and it accounts for most of the hospitalization of diabetic children and it is the most common cause of death in Type 1 diabetes.



The major goal of diabetes management in type 1 diabetes is the prevention the prevention of ketoacidosis by a high index of suspicion of early symptoms in undiagnosed and close supervision and control of established patients.



What predisposes to the development of ketoacidosis?



- infections, like pneumonia, urinary tract infections and sepsis
- psychological factors and improper usage and omission of insulin therapy, psychological factors include fear of hypoglycemia and the stress associated with the treatment of a chronic long standing disease
- kidney failure
- hypothermia
- acute stress like trauma , surgery



Symptoms



- Usual diabetic symptoms precede the development of DKA symptoms, these include ,polyuria (excessive urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), weight loss, and increasing body weakness..
- The onset is usually gradual ,over several days.
- Vomiting which may be severe and causes dehydration
- Hyperventilation, (hyper breathing)
- Abdominal pain which may be severe



Signs



- Dehydration which is usually more than 10% dehydration
- Tachycardia
- Blood pressure may be lowered ,but it is usually within normal range
- Body temperature might be normal, increased or reduced
- Convulsions
- Coma (unconsciousness)
- Hyperventilation



Management



Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency and once the symptoms are identified ,the diabetic should be taken to the hospital for prompt medical attention.
Posted by Admin On 5:49 PM No comments

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