Diabetic Ketoacidosis is a medical condition that occurs when the body does not get the energy it needs from blood sugar even though the blood glucose levels are high. This means that there is not enough insulin in the blood to signal the cells to use the blood sugar for energy. Once this happens the body begins to breakdown and burn fat and muscles for the energy it needs instead of glucose. This process produces fatty acids called ketones which enter into the bloodstream and causes a metabolic imbalance.
People who have type I or type II diabetes can get into a state of diabetic ketoacidosis when their blood sugar levels are too high. The symptoms that are associated with this metabolic state are hot skin, blurred vision, thirst, sleepiness, rapid breathing, sweet and fruity breath, abdominal pain, vomiting and mental confusion. Diabetics should be taken to see a medical doctor for treatment if they are experiencing these symptoms.
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