Recognizing Diabetic Ketoacidosis

DKA stands for diabetic ketoacidosis. It can start with a sick stomach. Nausea, throwing up and stomach pain can all show up first.

Early on, extreme thirst and peeing more often can appear too. Weakness can come with them.

These signs can feel like a stomach bug. Nausea from DKA often gets worse over time, so watch how it changes.

Ketones are chemicals that can build up in the body. They are acidic, meaning sour like vinegar. They can form when there is not enough insulin.

Acetone is one type of ketone. It can give your breath a fruity smell, or a smell like nail polish remover. A fruity breath smell is worth noticing, especially with the other signs.

Deep, fast breathing is different. Doctors call it Kussmaul breathing. It can look like someone who just climbed several flights of stairs.

This means DKA has progressed. It does not get better on its own. It usually needs hospital care.

Call your care team now. If you cannot reach them quickly, call 911.

Key takeaways

• Stomach trouble, extreme thirst and weakness can be early DKA signs.
• Fruity breath is a DKA sign, and deep, fast breathing needs emergency care.
• DKA does not clear on its own. It is a medical emergency that needs urgent care.

Try it

Today, write down the early DKA signs from this lesson and keep the list where your family can see it.