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The goal of treatment is to correct the elevated blood-glucose level by the administration of additional insulin, and replace fluids lost through excessive urination and vomiting. A person with diabetes may be able to recognize the early warning signs and make appropriate corrections at home before the condition progresses.

If ketoacidosis is severe, hospitalization is required to control the condition. Insulin replacement will be given, fluid and electrolytes will be replaced, and the cause of the condition (such as infection) will be identified and treated.

Prognosis

Cell damage from acidosis can lead to severe illness or death. Improved therapy for young diabetics has decreased the death rate associated with ketoacidosis. However, it remains a significant risk in the elderly and in people in profound coma when treatment has been delayed.

Complications

Acute myocardial infarction (tissue death) and infarction of bowel tissue due to associated low blood pressure

Renal failure

Call Your Health Care Provider If:

This condition can become a medical emergency. Call your health care provider if you notice early symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if nausea, vomiting, fruity breath, mental stupor, difficulty breathing, or decreased consciousness are present.

Ency. home > Disease > D > Diabetic ketoacidosis

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