Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious and life-threatening complication that happens when the body can't use sugar for energy and starts breaking down fat instead. This produces acids called ketones that build up in the blood.
Here are the key symptoms to watch for:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach or abdominal pain
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Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious and life-threatening complication that happens when the body can't use sugar for energy and starts breaking down fat instead. This produces acids called ketones that build up in the blood.
Here are the key symptoms to watch for:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach or abdominal pain
- Fruity-smelling breath
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Frequent urination
- Extreme thirst
- Confusion or trouble thinking
- Fatigue
- Racing heartbeat
- Dehydration
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately — DKA requires urgent treatment and should not be managed at home. It's worth knowing that DKA is more common in type 1 diabetes, but it can also occur in type 2 diabetes — especially if blood sugar levels are very high and uncontrolled. Staying on top of blood sugar management is the best way to reduce the risk.
5 days ago
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