Symptoms

Diabetic ketoacidosis signs and symptoms often develop quickly, sometimes within 24 hours. For some, these signs and symptoms may be the first indication of having diabetes. You may notice:

• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Weakness or fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Fruity-scented breath
• Confusion

More-specific signs of diabetic ketoacidosis — which can be detected through home blood and urine testing kits — include:

• High blood sugar level
• High ketone levels in your urine

When to see a doctor

If you feel ill or stressed or you've had a recent illness or injury, check your blood sugar level often. You might also try an over-the-counter urine ketones testing kit.

Contact your doctor immediately if:

• You're vomiting and unable to tolerate food or liquid
• Your blood sugar level is higher than your target range and doesn't respond to home treatment
• Your urine ketone level is moderate or high

Seek emergency care if:

• Your blood sugar level is consistently higher than 300 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), or 16.7 millimoles per liter (mmol/L)
• You have ketones in your urine and can't reach your doctor for advice
• You have many signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis — excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, weakness or fatigue, shortness of breath, fruity-scented breath, and confusion

Remember, untreated diabetic ketoacidosis can lead to death.