Diabetic ketoacidosis

When the body cannot convert the blood glucose into energy because of the lack of insulin, it will need another source of energy. Ultimately it will start breaking down fat and muscle as an alternative source of energy and this process produces waste chemicals (ketones), which causes a chemical imbalance and high blood acidity, basically poisoning the body. The body is not capable of releasing all the ketones and if this condition is not treated immediately it can have severe outcomes such as coma, swelling of the brain or death. The symptoms include nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, a fruity smelling breath, drowsiness, confusion, hyperventilation, dehydration and unconsciousness.

The treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis takes place in hospital and usually consists of insulin injections, replacement of minerals and receiving fluids directly to your veins in order to restore your levels. Normally the recovery is fairly quick and you can leave hospital when you are able to eat and drink normally again.