Treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis
The treatment for Diabetic ketoacidosis mainly involves a combination of approaches to regulate blood sugar and insulin levels. People diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis but have not been diagnosed with diabetes are usually treated with a diabetes plan created by the doctor, to keep ketoacidosis from reoccurring.
Infection can elevate the chances of having diabetic ketoacidosis. If this condition is caused by infection or illness, then it can be treated with an antibiotic.
Ways of treating diabetic ketoacidosis include;
- Fluid replacement
Your doctor will administer fluids at the hospital. In some cases, they can give them orally. However, fluids are always received through an IV. Fluid replacement is used in treating dehydration [6], which can lead to higher blood sugar levels.
- Insulin therapy
Insulin is usually administered intravenously until the blood sugar level goes below 240mg/dL. When your blood sugar level is within an acceptable range, your doctor will help take precautions that will prevent diabetic ketoacidosis in the future.
- Electrolyte replacement
When there is insufficient insulin in the body, the electrolytes also become insufficient. Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals that assist the body including the heart and nerves, working properly. Electrolyte replacement is also mainly done through an IV.
People diagnosed with diabetes ketoacidosis are admitted to the ICU for constant glucose and vital-sign monitoring and to start the process of restoring electrolytes via fluid IV. People also have frequent insulin infusions until the levels of ketones are adjusted and the blood- sugar levels return to normal.
Once treatment commences, recovery is usually rapid. Patients with diabetes ketoacidosis only stay for a few days in the hospital.
These are steps you can take to reduce the chances of exacerbating diabetes ketoacidosis:
- If you are sick and your insulin level is low, the best thing to do is drink lots of water or other fluids.
- If you cannot afford your prescribed level of insulin, talk to a doctor to help with assistance programs or samples they can prescribe to keep your dose at the correct level.
- You can also use cheaper alternative plans if you cannot afford your treatment plan long-term.
Conclusion
Diabetes ketoacidosis is a serious medical condition, but it can be prevented. It is important to follow your treatment plan and be proactive about your health. Adequate treatment should be gotten from a doctor.
References
[1] https://www.endocrineweb.com/conditions/type-1-diabetes/what-insulin#:~:text=Insulin%20is%20a%20hormone%20created,carbohydrates%2C%20fats%2C%20and%20proteins.
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/fatigue#:~:text=Fatigue%20is%20a%20term%20used,it’s%20not%20the%20same%20thing.
[3] https://www.medicinenet.com/nausea/symptoms.htm#:~:text=Nausea%20is%20the%20sensation%20of,psychological%20or%20physical%20in%20origin.
[4] https://www.healthline.com/health/hazy-vision
[5] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20352759#:~:text=A%20fever%20is%20a%20temporary,(39.4%20C)%20or%20higher.
[6] https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/dehydration-adults