Diabetic Emergency Practice Test

A primary cause of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is insufficient insulin. In individuals with diabetes, particularly those with type 1 diabetes, the absence or inadequate levels of insulin result in the body's inability to effectively utilize glucose for energy. When glucose cannot enter the cells due to lack of insulin, the body begins to break down fat for energy. This process produces ketones as a byproduct, leading to an increase in blood acidity, which characterizes diabetic ketoacidosis.

As glucose levels rise in the bloodstream, it triggers a series of metabolic derangements, including dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, further exacerbating the condition. DKA commonly occurs during times of stress, illness, or missed insulin doses, highlighting the crucial role that proper insulin management plays in preventing this serious complication. Understanding the link between insulin deficiency and the development of DKA is essential for effective diabetes management.