Final answer:
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a dangerous complication of diabetes that occurs when the body produces high levels of blood acids known as ketones. It develops when there's an insufficient insulin supply leading to fat breakdown, creating an acidic environment in the bloodstream.
Step-by-step explanation:
The accumulation of ketones and fatty acids in the blood tissue can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in diabetes patients. This occurs when the body starts to break down fats at an excessive rate due to a lack of insulin, leading to a buildup of acids known as ketones in the bloodstream.
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a result of the body not having enough insulin to allow glucose to enter cells for energy use, causing the body to shift to breaking down fats for fuel. The liver processes the fat into a fuel called ketones, which causes the blood to become acidic. Symptoms of DKA can include frequent urination, excessive thirst, nausea, abdominal pain, confusion, and in severe cases, coma.
It's crucial for diabetics to manage their blood sugar levels and to seek immediate medical attention if they suspect they are developing DKA.