It is triggered by a lack ofinsulinin the body.
Insulin allows glucose to pass from the bloodstream into body cells, where it is used for energy.
When your cells dont get the glucose they need, your liver begins to burn fat for energy instead.
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This condition is most commonly seen intype 1 diabetes, but can also occur intype 2 diabetes.
DKA is dangerous and possibly fatal.
Infection
Another common trigger of DKA isinfection.
Viral or bacterial infections such as pneumonia,urinary tract infection, andsepsiscan trigger DKA.
This is because your body needs more insulin than usual during an infection.
However, DKA can worsen heart conditions and cause cardiopulmonary complications, including pulmonary edema and respiratory failure.
Missed Meals
Eating and blood sugar levels are directly related to DKA.
For blood sugar management, people with diabetes shouldnt go more than five or six hours without food.
Skipping a meal throws off the balance of food intake and insulin production.
Additionally, missing meals will create a roller-coaster effect on your blood sugar levels.
Reaction to Medication
Some medications can cause a reaction that triggers DKA.
Unfortunately, this can include medications for treating diabetes.
Speak to your healthcare provider about medications that may increase your risk.
These include:
Medications that increase certain hormones or glucose levels have the potential to lead to DKA.
Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol abuse can cause DKA for a few reasons.
Excessive amounts of alcohol can lead to alcohol changing to acid in the body.
This is called alcoholic ketoacidosis.
Alcohol consumption doesnt have to be excessive to trigger DKA.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidismoccurs when your thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine.
Hyperthyroidism can destabilize blood sugar metabolism, which can lead to hyperglycemia and result in DKA.
Hyperthyroidism is also associated with a reduction of insulins half-life.
Additionally, hyperthyroidism causes metabolism to be quicker; therefore, medications like insulin will be eliminated faster.
Pregnancy
Finally, pregnancy is another common cause of DKA.
The body changes extensively during pregnancy, and one way is increased insulin resistance.
Seek emergency medical attention or call 911 immediately if you have these symptoms and suspect DKA.
A Word From Verywell
Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing care and management.
Harvard Health Publishing.Diabetic ketoacidosis.
