Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

DKA is a serious complication of diabetes
Caused by lack of insulin and high ketone levels
Requires urgent hospital treatment
Symptoms often develop over 24 hours

Overview

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a severe condition affecting people with diabetes, particularly those with type 1 diabetes, but also some with type 2 who use insulin. It occurs when the body doesn't have enough insulin to use glucose for energy, causing it to break down fat instead. This process produces acidic substances called ketones, which build up in the blood to dangerous levels. DKA can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. It can also happen to individuals who are newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, especially children, before they know they have the condition. Urgent hospital treatment is necessary to correct the imbalance and prevent serious complications.

Signs and Symptoms

Feeling very thirsty
Needing to urinate more often
Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
Diarrhoea
Breathing more deeply than usual
Breath smelling fruity (like nail polish remover)
Feeling tired, sleepy, or confused
Blurred vision

Things That Increase the Risk

Being unwell or having an infection
Injury or recent surgery
Menstruation (period)
Not taking enough insulin
Skipping insulin doses
Undiagnosed type 1 diabetes

Diagnosis

Checking blood glucose levels
Testing blood for ketone levels
Testing urine for ketone levels
Medical evaluation of symptoms

Treatment & Management

Urgent hospital admission
Insulin administered through a drip
Fluids and nutrients given intravenously
Close monitoring for complications
Education on preventing future DKA episodes

Prevention

Knowing DKA symptoms
Regularly checking blood glucose levels
Testing for ketones when blood glucose is high or during illness
Following sick day rules from your care team
Adjusting insulin doses as advised by your doctor
Never stopping or skipping insulin, even if not eating

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Diabetic Ketoacidosis: