Table of Contents
How is DKA treated in adults?
Treatment usually involves:
- Fluid replacement. You’ll receive fluids — either by mouth or through a vein — until you’re rehydrated.
- Electrolyte replacement. Electrolytes are minerals in your blood that carry an electric charge, such as sodium, potassium and chloride.
- Insulin therapy.
What are the three criteria for DKA?
Three key features of diabetic acidosis are hyperglycemia, ketosis, and acidosis. The conditions that cause these metabolic abnormalities overlap.
What is the threshold for DKA?
The US guidelines suggest using a glucose threshold of >250 mg/dL (13.9 mmol/L), presence of positive serum and urine ketones with an anion gap, and arterial pH <7.3 to make the diagnosis of DKA.
What if your blood sugar is over 500?
You might develop a serious problem called diabetic ketoacidosis (or DKA). This usually happens in people with Type 1 diabetes and those with glucose levels over 500. If you have DKA, chemicals called ketones start to make a lot of acid in your body. The acid and high blood glucose can make you very sick.
What is considered dangerously high blood sugar?
A reading above 300 mg/dL can be dangerous, according to the University of Michigan, which recommends immediately informing your doctor if you have two or more readings of 300 mg/dL in a row. In severe cases, very high blood sugar levels (well above 300 mg/dL) can result in coma.
How to determine DKA?
Cerebral oedema is the key life-threatening complication of DKA
What labs indicate DKA?
Excessive thirst.
How to manage DKA?
Management. Children and adolescents with DKA should be managed in a unit that has: Access to laboratory services for frequent and timely evaluation of biochemical variables; Experienced nursing staff trained in monitoring and management of DKA in children and adolescents
What happens If DKA is not treated?
One of the ketone bodies formed (acetone) leaves the body via the lungs, giving the breath of the person with DKA a characteristic, fruity smell. This is how DKA can be detected. DKA can induce coma or even death if not treated immediately. Signs & symptoms of DKA: