Diabetic Acidosis!

When diabetes is out of control because there is too much sugar in the blood (hyperglycemia) along with ketones, the condition is called diabetic acidosis. Acidosis is a serious complication of uncontrolled diabetes which may lead to diabetic coma and, if not treated, death. Acidosis results from a lack of insulin. Lack of insulin prevents the diabetic from properly using sugar for energy production. When this source of energy fails, the body turns to fat stores for energy. When large amounts of fat are broken down, acid products called ketones build up in the blood, producing acidosis. When large amounts of ketones collect in the blood, they spill over into the urine, therefore you can test your urine for the presence of ketones.

Signs and Symptoms:

Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)

Fatigue
Dry mouth and thirst
Excessive urination
Dry, itching skin
Changes in vision
Hunger
Weight Loss

Diabetic Acidosis

Nausea and vomitting
Flushed, dry skin
Abdominal pain
Drowsiness
Deep, rapid breathing
"Fruity" odor on breath
Unconsciousness or coma

Each person is an individual and will experience different symptoms. Know your symptoms!

Blood Sugar/Urine Tests

Large amounts of sugar and ketones will be present.

Important
Many persons may not spill ketones in their urine when their diabetes is out of control and are not at risk of developing acidosis. If you are spilling a large amount of sugar in your urine consistently, then notify your doctor. You may need to have your medication increased, or your treatment changed. This is important to prevent other serious problems.

Treatment

If caught in the early stages, acidosis may be treated by taking extra insulin according to your doctor's orders. Diabetic coma requires hospitalization with replacement of insulin and fluids. Coma is serious and unless properly treated, death may result.

Drink plenty of water if you are running ketones, to wash them out of your system.

Prevention

Always take your daily dose of medication
Follow your meal plan
Excercise regularly
Check your urine or blood for sugar regularly. Do not ignore positive results
Always check your urine or blood for sugar and urine ketones when you are ill

Remember

Your body may require extra insulin under certain conditions. Increased insulin requirements might occur with infection, illness, injury, surgery, emotional upset, and other stress, pregnancy, rapid growth, weight gain, insulin resistance, and certain drugs.

Be aware of what your body is telling you. Learn to recognize early symptoms of high blood sugar and take appropriate action.

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