Diabetic Ketoacidosis

• Diabetic Ketoacidosis Overview
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis Causes
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis Symptoms
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis Treatment
• Self-Care at Home
• Medical Treatment
• Next Steps
• Follow-up
• Prevention
• Outlook
• Support Groups and Counseling
• For More Information
• Web Links
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Diabetic Ketoacidosis Overview

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a state of inadequate insulin levels resulting in high blood sugar and accumulation of organic acids and ketones in the blood. It is also common in DKA to have severe dehydration and significant alterations of the body’s blood chemistry.

DKA is usually seen in people who have type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes. Most often, these are diabetics younger than 25 years, but the condition may occur in diabetics of any age. Males and females are equally affected.