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Symptoms of Diabetes and Ketoacidosis

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Diabetes is a disease that affect the way the body uses and processes glucose, which is a type of sugar used in the body for energy. Diabetes is becoming increasingly common in western countries, such as the United States, and if left untreated, can result in serious damage to the body.

There are two types of diabetes, which differ in how the body uses and produces insulin. Insulin is a hormone used to process glucose and in Type I diabetes, the body does not produce enough, or sometimes any, insulin. In Type II diabetes, the body develops an insulin resistance.

There are a number of symptoms of diabetes, which are often very similar among the different types of diabetes. However, the symptoms of Type I diabetes, which is much more common among children, typically develop much more rapidly than those of Type II Diabetes.

Symptoms of Type I and Type II Diabetes

  • Extreme Thirst and a Dry Mouth
  • Abnormal Urination
  • Blurry or Poor Vision
  • A lack of sleep, often due to having to frequently urinate at night
  • Low energy
  • Weight loss

What is Ketoacidosis

Quite often among those with Type I diabetes, ketoacidosis is the first indication of diabetes. Ketoacidosis is a condition in which ketones, which are a toxic chemical, begin to build up in the bodies bloodstream. This toxic buildup of ketones is caused by the body using fat as an energy source, because the body is not producing enough insulin to absorb and use glucose as energy. Ketoacidosis can also occur if the individual misses an insulin shot or develops an infection.

Symptoms of Ketoacidosis

  • Vomiting, Nausea, Upset Stomach, and Abdominal Cramps
  • Heavy Breathing
  • Acetone Breath, which is described as smelling like nail polish remover or juicy fruit gum
  • Confusion

If ketoacidosis occurs, medical treatment will be required and they are considered a medical emergency. Severe dehydration can occur and eventually coma, if left untreated. Treatment usually includes intravenous fluids to restore a chemical balance in the bloodstream and reduce dehydration., as well as intravenous insulin injections to help the body begin absorbing glucose again.

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